Benfica Stay Perfect as Sudakov Seals 3-1 Win Over Lech Poznan

Benfica kept their perfect start to the Europa League alive on Thursday night, beating Lech Poznan 3-1 at the Estadio da Luz to make it four wins from four in the league phase. Rafa Silva opened the scoring after just six minutes, finishing at the second attempt after the visiting goalkeeper slipped while dealing with a cross. The Portuguese side dominated the first half, outshooting Lech twelve to one, but could not add to their lead before the break. Substitute Gianluca Prestianni doubled the advantage in the 67th minute, cutting inside from the left and firing across goal just four minutes after coming on, with Heorhii Sudakov providing the assist. Lech hit back almost immediately, though, as Leo Bengtsson punished a mistake playing out from the back to make it 2-1 in the 72nd minute. Benfica held their nerve, and Sudakov settled the contest in the 90th minute, driving into space on the counter and finishing low into the corner after Enzo Barrenechea's pass. The win keeps Benfica among the early pacesetters in the competition, with thirteen goals scored across their four matches, while Lech Poznan are left to regroup after a third defeat of the campaign.