Benfica Opens Champions League Campaign with 2-1 Win at Red Star Belgrade

Benfica secured a 2-1 victory over Red Star Belgrade in their Champions League opener, thanks to goals from Kerem Akturkoglu and Orkun Kokcu. Akturkoglu, making his European debut for Benfica, scored from Alexander Bah’s cross, while Kokcu added a stunning 25-yard free-kick to give Benfica a two-goal lead at halftime.

Red Star’s Felicio Milson reduced the deficit with a late goal, but the hosts were unable to equalize. Despite attempts from Rade Krunic and Bruno Duarte, and a near-miss from Zeki Amdouni, Red Star could not find the back of the net again. This win marks only Benfica’s second opening match victory in their last eight Champions League campaigns.