Liga Sagres wrap: Rodrigo double fires Benfica

Benfica defeated Olhanense 2-1 on Saturday to keep pace with Liga Sagres leaders Porto, while Braga were held at Academica.

A brace from Brazilian forward Rodrigo saw hosts Benfica lead 2-0 as early as the 13th minute of the match at Estadio da Luz.

Striker Wilson Eduardo, on loan from Sporting Lisbon, pulled one back for the visitors two minutes into the second half.

And while Benfica were unable to extend the margin, Olhanense were similarly incapable of forcing an equaliser during the time remaining.

Victory sees Benfica join reigning champions Porto on 23 points at the top of the table, with both teams unbeaten from nine league matches played.

Also on Saturday, third-placed Braga lost more ground on the top two when they were held to a goalless draw by Academica.

After failing to end the deadlock at Estadio Cidade de Coimbra, Braga now find themselves five points back from Porto and Benfica.

Academica are sixth, one point and one place better off than Olhanense.