Alcochetense vs CF Benfica - Taça de Portugal

The Taça de Portugal returns to the home ground on September 20, 2026, where Alcochetense and CF Benfica will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. O'Neill made five changes for Celtic's midweek win at St Johnstone as he rested some key players ahead of Sunday's clash.

Alcochetense head into the contest positioned 3rd in the Taça de Portugal standings, while CF Benfica arrive sitting 20th. The hosts will be looking to find their rhythm and put a run of results together. CF Benfica will travel with intent, knowing that a positive result here could kick-start their campaign. Tim Sherwood makes his predictions for the new Premier League season, including who he thinks will make the top four in the table.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Alcochetense may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but CF Benfica have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. Moving the Dane on frees up space and gives the Partenopei greater room to press ahead with their incoming transfer plans.

Game-changers are scattered across both line-ups, and the contest may well be decided by which side's match-winners deliver on the day. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. They were decent at the back, not bad up front - especially when Harry Kane and Dejan Kulusevski were there - but never had a dominant midfielder.

The fixture has the feel of a coin-flip, and picking a winner with any conviction would require a braver pundit than most. Given the balance of the numbers, Alcochetense should have enough to edge it — a 2-1 victory looks the most likely outcome. Whatever the outcome, the Taça de Portugal fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters says a verdict on the alleged charges against Manchester City "has taken longer than expected".