Eagles move one step closer to historic fifth consecutive title
Benfica booked their place in the final of the Portuguese Basketball League play-offs after defeating Oliveirense 86-78 in Oliveira de Azeméis, completing a clean sweep in the semi-final series with three consecutive victories.
The reigning four-time national champions remain firmly on course for a historic fifth straight league title and will now await the outcome of the other semi-final between FC Porto and Sporting to discover their opponents in the decisive championship series.
Oliveirense dominated first half before Benfica comeback
Despite the final result, Benfica were forced to work hard for qualification in a demanding contest at the Pavilhão Dr. Salvador Machado.
Oliveirense started strongly, combining efficient attacking basketball with aggressive defensive pressure to build an advantage that reached 15 points midway through the second quarter.
Benfica struggled throughout the opening half, particularly from three-point range and at the free-throw line, allowing the home side to control proceedings and head into the interval leading 46-38.
Geno Crandall leads Benfica turnaround
The match changed dramatically after half-time as Benfica returned with a completely different intensity and defensive aggression.
Norberto Alves’ side gradually recovered the deficit and took the lead for the first time in the third quarter following a powerful dunk from Justice Sueing.
American point guard Geno Crandall delivered arguably his best performance of the season, finishing with 29 points, two rebounds, three assists, seven steals and one block.
Thanks largely to Crandall’s influence, Benfica entered the final quarter with a narrow one-point advantage.
Experience and quality secured Benfica victory
In the decisive final period, crucial three-pointers from Koby McEwen and veteran forward Betinho Gomes helped Benfica resist Oliveirense’s attempts to respond.
Leon Ayers III was Oliveirense’s standout performer with 20 points, while Polish centre Aleksander Dziewa also impressed with 21 points in the paint.
Ultimately, Benfica’s experience, defensive intensity and composure proved decisive as the Eagles confirmed another victory and secured their place in the championship final.
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