Early Blitz: Schjelderup and Rafa Fire Benfica to Dominant Start Against Nacional

LISBON, Portugal — Sport Lisboa e Benfica wasted no time asserting their dominance at the Estádio da Luz on Sunday, April 12, 2026, utilizing a rapid-fire opening to dismantle Nacional in the 29th round of the Liga Betclic 2025/26 season.

The home side effectively decided the contest within the first quarter-hour, spearheaded by a clinical early strike from Norwegian international Andreas Schjelderup and a well-worked team goal finished by Rafa.

A Lightning Start

The crowd had barely settled into their seats before Benfica struck. In the 3rd minute, Andreas Schjelderup silenced any hopes of a Nacional upset, firing a precise left-footed shot from the left side of the penalty area to make it 1-0.

The goal provided the immediate momentum shift the Eagles sought, forcing Nacional to abandon a defensive posture and open up spaces that Benfica’s creative midfield was eager to exploit.

Tactical Precision: The Second Goal

Whereas Schjelderup provided the spark, the second goal in the 14th minute was a masterclass in wing play and coordination. The sequence began with Dedic, who launched a transition that found Prestianni on the right flank.

Prestianni demonstrated superior physicality in a one-on-one battle with José Vítor, winning the ball and driving deep into the area. The Argentine then delivered a precise service to Rafa, who finished the move with a clinical strike to double the lead to 2-0.

For global readers, this early cushion is typical of Benfica’s home form at the Estádio da Luz, where the atmosphere often fuels a high-pressing start designed to overwhelm opponents before they can establish a rhythm.

Player Spotlight: The Rise of Andreas Schjelderup

The early goal further cements the importance of Andreas Schjelderup in the Benfica attack. The 21-year-old Norwegian, who joined the club after a successful stint at Nordsjælland, has evolved into a primary threat on the left wing.

Known for his technical proficiency and ability to cut inside, Schjelderup’s impact in the 2025/26 campaign reflects the club’s strategy of integrating high-ceiling young talent into the first team. His ability to find the net early in high-pressure league matches provides Benfica with a tactical versatility that few other teams in the Liga Betclic possess.

Beyond the Pitch: Benfica World

The matchday was not only about the action on the grass. The 15th edition of “Benfica World,” a club initiative that celebrates the global reach of the Eagles’ fanbase, took center stage. Guilherme dos Arcos Alves was honored as the winner of the latest edition after sharing a photograph that took the club’s identity to the Highlands of Scotland.

Alves, who secured 45% of the fan vote, was awarded double tickets and the opportunity to share his story on the pitch, highlighting the deep emotional connection between the club and its international supporters.

Looking Ahead: The Derby

While the victory over Nacional provides a confidence boost, the focus now shifts immediately to one of the most anticipated fixtures in Portuguese football. Benfica prepares for a high-stakes derby against Sporting in the 30th round of the Liga Betclic.

With the title race and bragging rights on the line, the Eagles will glance to carry this offensive momentum into the clash. The club has already initiated ticket sales for the derby, signaling a massive mobilization of the fanbase.

Benfica’s ability to secure early leads will be critical as they enter the final stretch of the season. The clinical nature of the Schjelderup and Rafa goals suggests a front line in peak form heading into the Sporting derby.

Next Checkpoint: Benfica faces Sporting in the 30th round of the Liga Betclic. Stay tuned to SL Benfica’s official channels for the latest team news and match updates.

Do you think Benfica’s early-goal strategy will work against Sporting in the upcoming derby? Let us recognize your thoughts in the comments below.