Benfica beaten at the Dragão as João Palhinha pledges even more conviction | OneFootball

João Palhinha moved to reassure Benfica fans after the 3-1 defeat at Porto, posting a defiant message on Instagram. It came a day after the first Clássico of the Liga Betclic 2026/27.

According to Glorioso 1904, Palhinha said the team now feels even more conviction and belief about what they will achieve together.

The Portugal international started and completed 90 minutes at the Estádio do Dragão. The loss halted Benfica’s run of five straight league wins.

His return to Portuguese football has also reopened the door to the Seleção. He was called up by Jorge Jesus in the 72-year-old coach’s first squad after missing the World Cup.

Benfica’s Samuel Soares and Tomás Araújo were also selected, alongside João Cancelo, Rúben Dias, Nuno Tavares, João Neves, Bernardo Silva, João Félix, Gonçalo Ramos and Fábio Silva.

Jorge Jesus said his choices were based solely on current form and performance, rejecting any suggestion that decisions were shaped by supporters’ reactions.

As the international break approaches, Palhinha’s note set a tone of resolve despite the Dragão setback.

Source: Glorioso 1904

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