Benfica routs Academica 3-0, keeps Portuguese lead

Associated Press

LISBON, Portugal (AP) — Benfica cruised to a 3-0 victory over Academica on Sunday to maintain its seven-point advantage atop the Portuguese league.

Benfica striker Rodrigo Lima scored a brace before the half hour mark to put the hosts in firm control at their Stadium of Light. Enzo Perez capped the rout with a goal on the hour mark to stretch Benfica's winning streak to seven games.

Benfica has 61 points to Sporting Lisbon's 54, while FC Porto beat Belenenses 1-0 to remain 12 points behind after 24 rounds.

Juan Quintero scored the lone goal in the 80th minute before Joao Afonso was red carded on the stroke of stoppage time to leave the visitors with 10 men.

Also Sunday, Pacos Ferreira beat Arouca 3-1 and Olhanense and Nacional drew 1-1.