Benfica Miss Champions League for First Time in 17 Years

Benfica will not take part in the Champions League this season. The club's absence marks the first time in 17 years that it has failed to qualify through the domestic league. The previous occasion when Benfica did not reach the Champions League via the league was the 2008/09 campaign. That season ended the club's long streak of qualification. During the 2008/09 season, Quique Flores served as Benfica's head coach. Under his leadership the team competed for European places. Benfica finished third in the Primeira Liga in the 2008/09 campaign. The third‑place finish was insufficient to secure a Champions League berth. Since that 2008/09 season, Benfica has consistently qualified for the Champions League through its league position. The current failure breaks that continuity. The 17‑year run without missing the competition was a notable record for the club. Its termination this season is a rare event in Benfica's recent history.