Leandro Barreiro strikes again on symbolic date as Benfica beat Rio Ave | OneFootball

Leandro Barreiro scored in Benfica’s win at Rio Ave in Vila do Conde, exactly a year after he struck three of the four in a home thrashing of Famalicão on 17 January 2025. The date again proved notable for the Luxembourg midfielder.

According to Glorioso 1904, the Luxembourg international is now a regular in José Mourinho’s starting side and his influence is growing. His consistency and late surges into the box feed an ambition to surpass last season’s six-goal best.

The result also marked a return of defensive solidity. It was Benfica’s first clean sheet of 2026, ending a recent poor run, and there have now been 13 clean sheets in 25 matches under the Special One.

The victory lifted Benfica to 42 points and they began the second half of the league campaign with a slightly better record than last term. Even so, the gap to the leaders remains a concern. Porto may keep a significant advantage, so any fightback will demand sustained consistency and greater efficiency in the matches ahead.

Barreiro has found fresh impetus under Mourinho this season and has featured in 32 official games. Across 1,557 minutes he has produced five assists and three goals, while being valued at 15 million euros.

Source: Glorioso 1904