# Ultimate Guide to Sporting CP vs Benfica Stats for Expert Football Analysis
The Lisbon Derby between Sporting CP and Benfica is one of football’s most intense rivalries. For fans, analysts, and bettors, understanding the Sporting CP vs Benfica stats is not just about bragging rights. It is about unlocking the tactical and historical patterns that define this epic clash. This guide goes beyond the basic scoreline. We will dive deep into historical data, head-to-head records, key performance metrics, and how to use this information for smarter predictions. Whether you are a seasoned analyst or a passionate supporter, this is your definitive resource.
UNDERSTANDING THE SEARCH INTENT BEHIND SPORTING CP VS BENFICA STATS
When someone searches for Sporting CP vs Benfica stats, they are typically in an informational and analytical mode. They are not just looking for the last result. They want context, trends, and data they can use. This could be for debate, for writing a preview, or for informing a betting strategy. The core need is to transform raw numbers into meaningful insights about this specific fixture.
KEY LSI AND RELATED KEYWORDS FOR DEEPER ANALYSIS
To fully cover the topic, we must consider related terms that signal deeper intent. These include Lisbon Derby head to head record, Sporting vs Benfica historical results, Benfica Sporting CP match statistics, Portuguese Classico data analysis, and predictions based on derby stats. Using these terms helps us answer all surrounding questions a searcher might have.
HISTORICAL HEAD TO HEAD RECORD BREAKDOWN
The long-term historical record provides the foundation. As of the end of the 2023/24 season, the overall competitive balance is remarkably close, which fuels the rivalry’s intensity. Benfica often holds a slight edge in total wins, but the gap is narrow. For instance, in Primeira Liga matches since the 1930s, the win count often separates the two by fewer than 20 victories out of over 200 meetings. This near-parity makes every new encounter unpredictable. Draws are also a significant factor, especially in tightly-contested cup finals or league deciders. The historical Sporting CP vs Benfica stats tell a story of relentless competition where neither side can claim true dominance for long.
RECENT FORM AND PERFORMANCE METRICS THAT MATTER
Looking at the last five to ten encounters is crucial. Recent form can override historical trends. Key performance indicators go beyond wins and losses. We need to examine:
– Average possession percentages.
– Shots on target per game.
– Expected Goals (xG) totals.
– Discipline records (yellow/red cards).
These Sporting vs Benfica match statistics reveal the tactical approach. Does one team consistently control the ball but fail to convert? Does the derby atmosphere lead to a high number of fouls and cards? For example, a match might end 1-0, but the xG data could show the losing team created higher-quality chances, indicating a potential for regression in the next fixture.
COMPARING TACTICAL APPROACHES AND PLAYER IMPACT
The stats are shaped by philosophy. Traditionally, Sporting CP, especially under managers like Rúben Amorim, have employed a high-pressing 3-4-3 system. This often leads to them forcing turnovers in advanced areas. Benfica, under Roger Schmidt, has favored a direct and vertical 4-2-3-1, looking to transition quickly. These styles clash directly in the midfield battle. The individual player stats are also telling. Who is the top scorer in the derby in the current squads? Who provides the most assists? A single moment of individual brilliance often decides these matches, so tracking form players is essential. According to data from Opta, in recent seasons, midfield duels and recoveries in the opponent’s half have been key differentiators in this fixture (来源: Opta Analyst).
HOW TO ANALYZE SPORTING CP VS BENFICA STATS FOR PREDICTIONS
Turning data into a forecast requires a structured approach. Here is a five-step guide to analyzing the Lisbon Derby head to head record and current form.
STEP 1: GATHER THE DATA. Collect the last five head-to-head meetings across all competitions. Note the venue, competition, and final score.
STEP 2: EXPAND BEYOND THE SCORE. For each match, find key metrics: possession, total shots, shots on target, xG, and corner counts. Websites like FBref or WhoScored are excellent sources.
STEP 3: CONTEXTUALIZE THE NUMBERS. Ask why. Was a key player missing? Was a red card issued early? Did a team have a crucial UEFA match a few days prior? Context explains outliers.
STEP 4: ANALYZE CURRENT SEASON FORM. Look at each team’s last five league games. Are they scoring freely? Is their defense solid? How do their overall season stats compare?
STEP 5: SYNTHESIZE FOR A VIEW. Combine the historical head-to-head trends with current form and contextual factors. Does history show a pattern of home advantage? Does current form suggest a shift in the balance of power?
COMMON MISTAKES WHEN INTERPRETING DERBY STATISTICS
A WARNING FOR ALL ANALYSTS
A critical mistake is over-relying on ancient history. A result from 1995 has minimal bearing on a match in 2024 due to completely different players, managers, and tactics. Focus on the recent past. Another pitfall is misreading possession stats. Having 65% of the ball means little if it is passive possession without penetration. Always pair possession with shots on target and xG. Finally, do not underestimate the “derby factor.” Normal form can go out the window. The emotional weight of the fixture can lead to unexpected errors or moments of magic that pure statistical models might not capture.
COMPARISON OF KEY STATISTICAL AREAS FOR SPORTING AND BENFICA
To visualize the tactical clash, here is a comparison of typical statistical profiles based on recent seasons’ averages. This table highlights their contrasting strengths.
| Statistical Metric | Shopping CP Typical Profile | Benfica Typical Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Average Possession % | Higher (Often 58%+) | Moderate (Around 52-55%) |
| Press Intensity (Passes per Defensive Action) | Very High (Low PPDA) | Moderate to High |
| Direct Attack Speed | Moderate | Very High |
| Defensive Line Height | Very High | High |
| Primary Chance Creation | Wing-backs crossing, forced turnovers | Central through balls, quick transitions |
This contrast is what makes the Portuguese Classico data analysis so fascinating. It is a battle between controlled aggression and explosive transition.
THE ROLE OF VENUE AND STADIUM ATMOSPHERE
The venue is a massive factor in the Sporting CP vs Benfica stats. Matches at the Estádio José Alvalade (Sporting) and the Estádio da Luz (Benfica) have distinct patterns. Home advantage in derbies is often amplified. Historically, each team has a stronger win percentage in their own fortress. The crowd influence can also be seen in metrics like early pressure, often reflected in the number of fouls or bookings in the opening 20 minutes as players match the crowd’s intensity.
FROM DATA TO DECISION A PRACTICAL CHECKLIST
Before the next Lisbon Derby, use this actionable checklist to conduct your own expert analysis.
CHECKLIST FOR ANALYZING THE LISBON DERBY
Review the last five head-to-head match reports for goalscorers and key events.
Pull the advanced metrics (xG, shots on target) for those last five meetings.
Check the injury and suspension list for both squads three days before the match.
Analyze each team’s form in their previous three matches, noting goal trends.
Consider the match context league position, cup implications, or European fatigue.
Factor in the venue and its historical impact on the fixture’s style of play.
Synthesize all points to form a data-informed view, not just a gut feeling.
In my experience working with football data, derbies like this are the ultimate test of an analyst’s skill. The numbers provide a framework, but the unique pressure of the fixture means you must leave room for the unpredictable. We always treat derby predictions with more caution than a regular league match. The comprehensive Sporting CP vs Benfica stats give you the knowledge. Applying that knowledge with context is what makes the difference.
