The UEFA Europa League had a full set of group stage matches on Thursday, November 5, 2009 including Everton v Benfica. Here’s a recap along with video highlights of the match.
Benfica beats Everton 2-0 – Video Highlights
Everton hosted Benfica looking to avenge a 5-0 defeat in the last matchday. It was a strong crowd at Goodison Park as Everton began the match with confidence but Benfica did not back down. The Portugese side had some chances early and tested Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard. As the first half winded down, Benfica started to get the better chances and almost took the lead in the 41st minute. A shot was off the post and then another on goal was saved by Howard as the visitors were unlucky to not have the lead.
Everton had their chances but Benfica were much more dangerous in the attack in the first half. It would remain 0-0 at halftime.
The second half was more of the same as Benfica created the better chances. They were rewarded with the first goal of the match in the 63rd minute as Javier Saviola scored. The goal was poor defense from Everton as Saviola had a shot from the edge of the box and little chance for Howard to make the save. It would only get worse for Everton as they couldn’t tie the the match before Benfica would extend their lead.
It was a bit unlucky for Everton as the goal was a result of a deflected shot that fell to another Benfica player who volleyed it into the back of the net. Oscar Rene Cardoza scored the goal as it was a very good volley shot that Howard had little chance to save. The goal was a result of Everton’s inability to clear the ball and Benfica taking advantage of an opportunity.
Everton put on a late charge to find some goal and put some pressure on the Benfica defense. They were unable to score as Benfica would win their second match in a row against Everton in the group stage by a combined score of 7-0 (2-0 and 5-0).
| SCORING SUMMARY | |
| Everton | Benfica |
| Javier Saviola (63) | |
| Oscar Rene Cardozo (76) | |
| MATCH STATS | ||
| Everton | Benfica | |
| Shots (on Goal) | 10(4) | 13(7) |
| Fouls | 11 | 18 |
| Corner Kicks | 4 | 5 |
| Offsides | 3 | 0 |
| Time of Possession | 53% | 47% |
| Yellow Cards | 3 | 2 |
| Red Cards | 0 | 0 |
| Saves | 9 | 6 |
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Benfica is the best!
Benfica are a good side there’s no disputing that and Everton have a dropped into a tough group but they did bring the score line down in the second game. What makes Benfica look good if we are been honest is not Benfica are fantastic but basically Evertons defense is all over the place at times which would make a sunday League striker look good…