Tthe first big match of the season is approaching, with the two favourites – Monte Carlo and Benfica – facing each other next weekend.
Monte Carlo are on top of the Elite League after five rounds, two points ahead of Benfica Macau. These two teams are the favourites for winning the title this year and next weekend a mouthwatering match between them will be a great psychological boost for the winners.
Benfica had not the best start of the season, after dropping two points against Cheng Fung in the second round. However, following this one-all draw, the Reds reacted and won the next three matches by big margins: 8-0 against Lai Chi, 9-1 against Macau U23 and 5-0 against Ka I.
Monte Carlo, on the other hand, had a perfect start by winning all of their five games, including the one against third-placed C.P.K. This 2-0 victory was the first real test for the team in yellow and they managed to keep another rival at bay.
For next week’s game, reigning champions Benfica have a bit more pressure than Monte Carlo, because they are not allowed to drop any more points if they want to play a role in the title race this year. A loss would mean a five points gap between them and Monte Carlo, and in a small 10-team-league like this, it would be difficult to bounce back. At the same time, Monte Carlo are looking to secure their first place. The team is coached by Brazilian Claudio Roberto and has displayed high-quality football so far this season, still remaining undefeated.
Also next weekend, C.P.K. will face fourth-ranked Kei Lun, separated by just two points from each other. Nevertheless, C.P.K are still the favourites, although they have shown some weaknesses that Kei Lun coach Josecler will seek to exploit.
In the middle of the table, but not safe from relegation, are Policia, Cheng Fung, Ka I and Sporting Macau, while Lai Chi and Macau U23 are at the very bottom, with just one point each.
Photo: Facebook Macau Bolinha Bolão
