Portugal: Benfica win, Porto drop points

(GSM) – Benfica extended their lead in the Portuguese league thanks to a 1-0 win over local rivals Belenenses, while Porto had their title hopes dented by a goalless draw at Leixoes.

Benfica, who had only three Portuguese players in their starting line-up against seven South Americans, scored the opening goal through Paraguayan forward Oscar Cardozo in the ninth minute.

The leaders failed to add to their lead but were helped by a direct red to Belenenses goalkeeper Bruno Vale in the 78th minute.

FC Porto saw the gap with the top two increase following a 0-0 draw at Leixoes, and are now nine points behind Benfica. The defending champions do have a game in hand.

Sporting Braga, who have four points less than Benfica but also have two games more to go, play a home match with Maritimo on Sunday.