Casa Pia vs Benfica prediction 17.08.2026 | Liga Portugal

Last season was tough for Casa Pia. They finished in the relegation playoff zone and needed a victory against Torreense to remain in the strongest domestic competition. The 2026/27 campaign could be equally challenging, as Casa Pia are among the worst teams in Liga Portugal. Felipe Coelho's team has been struggling lately with three consecutive defeats, including the preseason. In the league opening round, they lost 1-0 on the road against Maritimo. The hosts were clearly better, as they finished with xG of 1.40, while the visitors had only 0.68. 

Casa Pia are trying to improve their team in the market. According to the reports, they are close to signing JP from Vasco da Gama. The midfielder appeared in only two Serie A matches in 2026, but should have more opportunities in Rio Maior. 

Casa Pia could have a full squad on Monday. Joao Pedro Goulart Silva is injured, but he could recover in time to participate in the upcoming tie. 

For the third consecutive season, Benfica are without the Liga Portugal trophy, and their primary goal for the 2026/27 season is to reclaim the throne. However, Porto and Sporting CP look slightly stronger, and it would not be surprising if Benfica finish third again. Marco Silva's team has won two Europa League qualifying matches so far, but in the only domestic game, they played only 2-2 against Academico Viseu. In the most recent outing, Benfica played 1-1 on the road against Hearts. However, in the first leg, Silva's team won 6-1, so there was no doubt which team would advance to the next phase. 

Benfica are trying to improve their team. They are interested in Southampton's defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis. Also, Benfica could try to sign Ryan Flamingo (from PSV) and Gustavo Puerta (Racing Santander) in the coming weeks. 

Joshua Wynder is injured and will not play on Monday in Rio Maior. Also, Fredrik Aursnes is questionable, and his status will become clearer closer to kickoff.