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Red Star Belgrade 1-2 Benfica: Turkish Delight for Visitors as Akturkoglu and Kokcu Earn Win

Match Summary

In a pulsating Europa League clash, Benfica emerged victorious against Red Star Belgrade, securing a 2-1 triumph in Serbia.

The visitors took the lead in the 15th minute through Kerem Akturkoglu, who prodded home from close range after a clever cutback.

Red Star responded resolutely and leveled the scores courtesy of a Mirko Ivanic header just before the half-hour mark.

However, Benfica regained the advantage in the 60th minute when Orkun Kokcu curled a sumptuous effort into the top corner.

The hosts pushed for an equalizer but were unable to breach the Benfica defense, as the Portuguese side held on to secure a valuable away victory.

Key Moments

Kerem Akturkoglu's opener gave Benfica an early advantage and set the tone for the match.

Mirko Ivanic's equalizer re-energized Red Star and gave them hope of securing a positive result.

Orkun Kokcu's stunning goal proved to be the match-winner, showcasing Benfica's attacking prowess.

Player Ratings

Red Star Belgrade:

  • Milan Borjan (GK): 7/10 – Made several important saves but couldn't prevent Benfica's goals.
  • Stefan Mitrovic (DF): 6/10 – Solid defensively but struggled to cope with Benfica's attacking threat.
  • Mirko Ivanic (DF): 7/10 – Scored a crucial equalizer and defended resolutely.
  • Aleksandar Dragović (DF): 6/10 – Experienced but was caught out of position for Benfica's second goal.
  • Veljko Simic (MF): 6/10 – Hustled and harried but couldn't provide much attacking threat.
  • Benfica:

  • Odisseas Vlachodimos (GK): 8/10 – Produced several world-class saves to keep Red Star at bay.
  • Gilberto (DF): 7/10 – Defended diligently and provided width going forward.
  • Antonio Silva (DF): 8/10 – Composed and dominant in the air.
  • Nicolas Otamendi (DF): 7/10 – Marshaled the defense effectively but was occasionally caught out of position.
  • Kerem Akturkoglu (MF): 8/10 – Scored the opening goal and was a constant threat with his pace and skill.
  • Orkun Kokcu (MF): 8/10 – Scored a sensational winning goal and controlled the game's tempo.
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