SL Benfica B began their pre-season preparations in impressive style, hammering Merida AD 4-0 in an international club friendly on July 26, 2026. The Portuguese side's superior technical quality and sharp finishing proved too much for the Spanish visitors, who were playing their first friendly of the summer.

Match Report

Played at Benfica's training ground, the match served as an important fitness exercise for both clubs. Benfica B dominated from the start, moving the ball quickly and pressing high. The first goal came in the 12th minute when a clever through ball split the defence and was finished calmly. Merida AD struggled to keep possession and were pinned back for long periods.

Key Moments

• 12th minute: Benfica B take the lead with a precise finish from inside the box.
• 34th minute: A low cross from the right is turned home from close range for 2-0.
• 58th minute: A powerful strike from outside the area makes it 3-0.
• 79th minute: A header from a corner completes the scoring at 4-0.

Player Highlights

Benfica B's number 9, a young forward pushing for a first-team call-up, scored twice and showed excellent movement. The midfield trio controlled the tempo throughout. For Merida AD, their goalkeeper made several fine saves to keep the score respectable, while the defence occasionally showed promise in one-on-one situations.

Friendly Context

Both teams used the match to evaluate squad depth and fitness levels. Benfica B will take confidence from the clean sheet and creative attacking play ahead of the new season, while Merida AD will focus on defensive coordination in their upcoming friendlies.