Portugal's football clubs have been making a strong comeback in European competitions. After several years of mediocre performances, 2024/25 could mark a turning point with impressive results so far.
2. Vitria and Braga's Near-Perfect Qualifying Rounds
Vitria and Braga have had near-perfect qualifying rounds in the UEFA Conference League and Europa League respectively. This sets a high standard for the rest of the season.
3. Sporting and Benfica's Champions League Victories
Sporting and Benfica began their Champions League campaigns with victories this week, adding to the momentum of Portugal's football teams in Europe.
4. Goal to Recuperate Sixth Place from the Netherlands
The goal is to recuperate sixth place from the Netherlands, which will earn Portugal an extra Champions League place in 2026/27 and increase the overall allocation of teams in Europe back up to six instead of the current five.
5. Primeira Liga Clubs' European Success
In total, Primeira Liga clubs have won 13 out of 14 European matches this season, with Vitria, Braga, Sporting, and Benfica contributing significantly to this success.
6. UEFA Coefficient Points System
Each victory by a Portuguese team in Europe contributes 0.4 points, while a draw is worth 0.2 points. This system favors Portugal due to their fewer teams competing in Europe compared to the Netherlands.
7. Dutch Teams' Performance in Europe
The Netherlands began the campaign with six teams in Europe, but Go Ahead Eagles were knocked out in the qualifiers. PSV Eindhoven and Feyenoord are in the Champions League, while Ajax, Twente, and AZ Alkmaar are in the Europa League.
8. Benfica's Rich History in European Competitions
Benfica is one of the most decorated Portuguese teams in UEFA competitions. They have won two consecutive European Cups and hold the Portuguese record for most appearances in finals of UEFA competitions.
9. Current UEFA Rankings for Benfica
As of the 202324 season, Benfica occupies the eighth place at the Champions League's all-time ranking and holds the second most participations (42) in the competition.
10. Country Coefficient Points for Portugal
The country coefficient for Portugal is 47.917, with Benfica contributing significantly to this total. The coefficient is crucial for determining the number of teams Portugal can send to European competitions.
11. Potential Impact on Future Seasons
Even if Portugal does not rise to sixth place by the end of the season, positive results this campaign may not have tangible effects for 2026/27 but will likely do for subsequent years.
