Benfica gained a key four-point advantage with seven games left, taking a big step towards winning the championship.

The Portuguese champions’ campaign in European competitions came to an end after a gloomy performance against the Spanish side, further hindered by Steven Defour’s red card.

An undisputed victory over last-placed Moreirense tightened Benfica’s grip at the top of the Portuguese League.

Benfica needed an extra effort to beat Olhanense, as Porto cruised in Madeira.

The two clubs remain undisputed leaders, playing up to par with each other, and possibly out of reach of other contenders despite still having a long way to go.

In a showdown between Portuguese League contenders, the ‘Leões’ overcame the visitors for Vercauteren’s first win. Meanwhile, Porto and Benfica pull ahead.

The Portuguese guaranteed a place in the knockout stage by grabbing the needed point in Kyiv.

The new manager failed to provide more than a slight boost, while Porto and Benfica cruised to victory.

Porto, Benfica and Braga celebrate their victories in the 7th round of the Portuguese League. The draw for the fourth round of the Portuguese Cup was also revealed Monday and will see four encounters between teams of the Liga Zon Sagres.