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.