Benfica criticises refereeing in Porto v Arouca, says two points were gifted | OneFootball

Benfica have condemned the refereeing in Porto’s 3-1 victory over Arouca, claiming the officials handed their rivals points ahead of the upcoming Clássico.

According to Glorioso 1904, the club used its official X account on Friday, 27 February, to share footage of the late penalty awarded at Estádio do Dragão and accused the match officials of favouring Porto.

The post asserted the spot-kick should not have been given and argued the win for Francesco Farioli’s side lacked legitimacy, adding that staying ahead is easy in such circumstances.

The flashpoint came in the 88th minute when referee Iancu Vasilica penalised Arouca for a foul on a Porto player. The decision was upheld after a VAR check led by Rui Costa.

Before meeting Porto, Benfica visit Gil Vicente on Monday, 2 March, to conclude the 24th round of the Liga Portugal Betclic. The Clássico is set for Sunday, 8 March, at Estádio da Luz at 18:00, with tickets already on sale.

Source: Glorioso 1904