In a dramatic Taça de Portugal final held on May 25, 2025, Sporting CP edged out arch-rivals Benfica with a 3‑1 victory after extra time, securing their 31st triumph in the competition, The match, played at the Estádio Nacional in Oeiras, saw Conrad Harder named Man of the Match for his pivotal role in Sporting’s comeback

A Tale of Momentum Swing and Cup Glory

Despite Benfica winning the League Cup final earlier in January via penalty shootout, this cup final was dominated by Sporting. Sporting overturned the early advantage with grit and depth, striking in extra time to break the deadlock. Benfica ultimately fell short despite their strong campaign throughout the season   .

Benfica’s Rebuke Over Match Officiating

Off-field controversy later erupted as Benfica’s leadership publicly criticized refereeing standards in both the Liga Portugal and Taça competitions, threatening to bar the Portugal national team - including Cristiano Ronaldo - from using Estádio da Luz unless integrity is restored  . Their president demanded disciplinary reviews of VAR officials, and the club now risks a potential three-month stadium ban and hefty fines by the Portuguese Football Federation  .

What This Means for Both Clubs

Sporting’s cup victory cements their resurgence in Portuguese football, offering a morale-boosting title as the season ends. Meanwhile, Benfica face mounting scrutiny and possible sanctions if their stadium ban threat is enacted. The escalating tensions suggest a brewing standoff that could reshape domestic football politics.