1999–2000 S.L. Benfica season "their worst performance of the season, and seeing Porto close in on the top of the table." On 4 November, Benfica hosted P.A.O.K. for the second leg of their European qualifier. They lost 2–1 in normal time, requiring extra time and a penalty shootout to decide the match. The Lisbon side converted all their shots, progressing into the next round. Four days later, the club defeated S.C. Braga by one goal in a league match to open a three-point lead. After a one-week break for the Taça de Portugal, Benfica visited Estádio das Antas for the Clássico against Porto. They
2002–03 S.L. Benfica season in such a display of power ... ", allowing them to manage the game in the second half, ensuring a 2–0 win and reducing the distance to Porto to 10 points. Benfica won their third consecutive match on 22 February; a 6–2 away win against Vitória Setúbal. The opponents took an early lead in the 18th minute when Pascal scored a goal, and doubled their advantage five minutes later; however, in a strong second half, Benfica overturned the game. Simão scored a hat-trick, aided by Tiago and Tomo Šokota, who also scored goals. On 4 March, Benfica played Porto on