# Marcanos: 2023 Portuguese Cup Season Ratings

The 2023 Portuguese Cup season was a thrilling tournament that saw some of the country's top football clubs fight for supremacy. This edition of the competition, held from January to May, delivered intense matches, dramatic finishes, and unforgettable moments. Below, we break down the key highlights and performances from the season.

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## **A Thrilling Final: Benfica vs. Porto**

The final of the 2023 Portuguese Cup was a nail-biting encounter between two of the country's most successful clubs, Benfica and Porto. The match was held at the Estádio da Luz in Lisbon, with both teams pushing hard to claim victory.

Benfica, known for their young and dynamic squad, made it to the final despite facing tough competition. Their star player, Enzo Fernández, was instrumental throughout the tournament, showcasing his skill and leadership on the field. On the other hand, Porto relied on their experience and tactical brilliance, with players like Mehdi Taremi and Alex Telles playing pivotal roles in their campaign.

The game ended in a 2-2 draw after extra time, forcing a penalty shootout to decide the winner. Both teams displayed incredible resilience, but it was Benfica who emerged victorious in the shootout, lifting the trophy and celebrating their success.

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## **Team Performances: Benfica and Porto Shine**

Benfica and Porto dominated the competition, but other teams like Sporting CP and Atlético de Madrid also made significant contributions. Sporting CP had a solid run, reaching the semifinals before falling to Benfica. Meanwhile, Atlético de Madrid proved their competitiveness, especially in their quarterfinal clash against Barcelona, which ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw.

Porto, despite their ageless experience, faced tough competition from Benfica and other young guns. Their ability to adapt to different playing styles and maintain composure under pressure was key to their performance. Benfica, despite their young squad, proved they could compete with the best teams in Portugal.

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## **Standout Players and Memorable Moments**

Enzo Fernández was the standout player of the tournament, earning widespread recognition for his performances. His leadership, creativity, and goal-scoring ability made him a fan favorite and a key asset for Benfica.

Mehdi Taremi also impressed with his consistency and goal-scoring prowess, while Alex Telles continued to showcase his versatility on the left side of the defense for Porto.

One of the most memorable moments came in the semifinals, where Sporting CP's explosive attack led by players like Gonzalo Plata and Paulão almost pulled off an upset against Benfica. The match ended in a 4-3 win for Benfica, setting the stage for the dramatic final.

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## **A Season for the Ages**

The 2023 Portuguese Cup was a season for the ages, with intense matches, emerging stars, and seasoned veterans delivering unforgettable performances. Benfica and Porto once again proved why they are the giants of Portuguese football, but the competition as a whole highlighted the depth and quality of the league.

As we look back on the season, one thing is clear: the Portuguese Cup never fails to deliver. Here's to the next edition!

• Season
• Portuguese
• Cup
• 2023
• Marcanos