Porto will likely set up in their usual 4-4-2, pressing high through the channels with Evanilson and Pepê. That front two will hunt in packs, looking to force mistakes from Benfica's centre-backs. Benfica, expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1, will rely on their double pivot to shield the back four and spring Rafa Silva and Prestianni between the lines. That's the knife that can cut Porto open. The midfield dogfight will be brutal: Porto's wide midfielders must track Benfica's inverted full-backs, or the visitors will dominate the half-spaces.

Set-pieces could be decisive. Porto are traditionally strong in the air at the Dragão, but Benfica's height in the box is a real threat. The game state matters: if Porto score first, they'll drop into a low block and dare Benfica to break them down. If Benfica score, Porto will throw bodies forward. Expect a cagey opening, then fireworks.