Benfica dropped two points in their Portuguese league opener after drawing 2-2 with newly promoted Academico Viseu at an empty stadium in Lisbon. Greek international striker Vangelis Pavlidis opened the scoring for the host team early in the match.
Pavlidis put Benfica ahead in the 10th minute after receiving the ball behind the opposition defence. He spotted the visiting goalkeeper off his line and scored with a long-range shot to make it 1-0.
The first half continued with a high tempo, multiple scoring opportunities, and several yellow cards. Pavlidis came close to doubling the lead in the 36th minute, but his effort struck the post as Benfica held a 1-0 advantage at half-time.
Second half goals
Academico Viseu equalised in the 55th minute through a goal by Pereira. Benfica responded three minutes later when Prestianni restored the lead for head coach Marco Silva's team in the 58th minute.
The visiting side drew level once more in the 67th minute when Clovis scored to make it 2-2. Benfica pressed for a winning goal in the final minutes of the match but were unable to break through.
Match conditions and title rivals
The fixture was held behind closed doors as Benfica served a stadium punishment. The host team hit the woodwork three times overall during the course of the match.
Porto was the only club among the Portuguese Big Three to win on the opening matchday of the season. Sporting Lisbon also recorded a 2-2 draw against Amadora, despite a goal from Greek forward Fotis Ioannidis.
