Benfica give player of the match to referee Gustavo Correia in ironic protest | OneFootball

Benfica responded to a tense 2-2 draw with Famalicão by handing the player of the match award to the refereeing team led by Gustavo Correia in an openly ironic move. According to Glorioso 1904, the gesture underlined the club’s anger with the officiating.

The game finished level after a fractious contest, and the Lisbon side’s reaction quickly drew widespread attention on social media.

Initially, the award had gone to Andreas Schjelderup, who scored one and set up another, but the Norwegian did not appear for the customary Sport TV flash interview to collect it.

His absence was tied to Benfica’s formal post-match protest over several decisions. The club then announced that the prize would be “offered” to Correia’s team, a symbolic step that sparked fresh debate.

The result marked Benfica’s 10th league draw. They remain second on 76 points, though Sporting could draw level.

The match also echoed the draw with Casa Pia on 9 November 2025, when refereeing calls were similarly contested.

Source: Glorioso 1904