FC Porto player João Moutinho in the match against Benfica (Photograph: José Sena Goulão/Lusa)

The first semi-final of the Bwin League Cup was a fast-paced match that ultimately resulted in Benfica‘s 3-2 win over FC Porto, but not before the lead changed three times.

Benfica took an early lead by Maxi Pereira on the fourth minute, only to slow down and have Porto respond through Lucho Gonzalez and Mangala. In the span of 20 minutes Benfica failed to have possession and only at times created offensive plays. Porto’s dominance was capped with the header of the French centre-back, while Lucho saw Javi García edge his effort past keeper Eduardo.

Benfica woke up before the break and Nolito nudged the ball into goal on a scramble in Porto’s box.

The pace settled in the second half and it was replacement Cardozo who applied a quality finish to a quick counter play, when everyone seemed to be getting ready for a penalty shoot-out.

Benfica now awaits for an opponent from either Gil Vicente or SC Braga.