Sporting CP has emerged as Portugal's strongest contender in the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League league phase, earning seven points from four matches. Benfica, in contrast, faces an uphill battle after four straight defeats. Porto and Braga remain well-positioned in the Europa League.
The league phases of UEFA's European competitions have reached their halfway points, with Portugal's teams having played four games each. Sporting CP, the reigning Liga Portugal champions, have made the most significant impact in the Champions League, continuing their strong European form from last season's knockout stage run.
Sporting started with a victory against debutants Kairat Almaty, followed by a home win over Marseille and a draw away to Juventus. A recent loss to Napoli was disappointing, but the team created good chances, suggesting potential for long-term progress. With seven points, Sporting are favorites to reach the playoff round and could aim for a top-eight finish to bypass the initial knockout stage. A consecutive knockout stage appearance would be successful, with the round of 16 as the real target in the new format.
Benfica's campaign has been the opposite, marked by four defeats to Qarabag, Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Bayer Leverkusen. They have conceded eight goals while scoring just twice, both at Estádio da Luz. Without the option to drop into the Europa League, Benfica needs a remarkable turnaround. Manager José Mourinho must strengthen the defense and revive Vangelis Pavlidis, last year's seven-goal UCL performer. Key upcoming wins against Ajax and Napoli, plus victories over Juventus or Real Madrid, will be vital.
In the Europa League, Porto and Braga are in good shape despite recent disappointments, positioned to advance. Portuguese clubs rarely dominate the Champions League, but Sporting's form ensures national hopes extend into 2026 knockouts, potentially leading to a memorable run.