2000–01 S.L. Benfica season took an early lead with a Van Hooijdonk goal in the 15th minute, and added two more in the first half, one by Carlitos and another from an own goal. The Dutch striker added two more goals to his tally in the second half. On 17 January, Benfica received Porto for the first of three consecutive games against them. The first game was part of the Taça de Portugal and ended in a 1–1 draw. Maniche scored the lone Benfica goal before Maric equalized for Porto. A rematch was held to settle the tie. Four days later, on Sunday, Benfica
2001–02 S.L. Benfica season hosted Braga with Jankauskas, Simão and Sokota all sidelined by injuries. Without any firepower, the team took a 1–1 draw, allowing Porto to catch up in the league race. Benfica opened April in Azores against Santa Clara on the 6th. Lacking attacking options, the team was unable to score and ended with a goalless draw; they remained ahead of Porto only with the goal difference. On 14 April, Benfica received Paços de Ferreira at home. With two goals in the first half and another two in the second, the team won 4–0 and remained in third. A week later, Benfica