Marit Lund scores twice as Benfica defeat Juventus 2-1 in Women's Champions League

Set-piece double secures opening victory

Benfica opened the Women's Champions League league phase on Tuesday with a 2-1 victory over Juventus at the Allianz Stadium in Turin. Norwegian international left-back Marit Lund scored twice from set pieces, converting a penalty in the first half and adding a direct free kick in the second half. Over 3,000 spectators watched the opening European fixture in Italy. Juventus forward Alba Redondo scored in the 86th minute to narrow the margin, but the Portuguese champions defended their lead through stoppage time. The result handed Benfica their first three points of the continental campaign, while Isaac Guerrero's side opened the league phase with a home loss.

First-half pressure and the opening penalty

Juventus controlled the opening exchanges and created several opportunities in front of the Portuguese goal. Redondo struck the post with a cross in the 12th minute and headed over the bar from an Estela Carbonell delivery in the 22nd minute. Benfica grew into the match after Froya Dorsin shot over from distance and Danielle de Jong denied Chandra Davidson in the 36th minute. Two minutes later, a video assistant referee review determined that Juventus captain Martina Rosucci fouled Anna Csiki in the penalty area. Lund converted the resulting spot kick in the 40th minute to give Benfica the lead.

Benfica head coach Ivan Baptista discussed his side's mindset and tactical preparation ahead of the fixture.

We expect a different team from last year, with a very different squad and a new coaching staff, a substantially different way of playing. Without the ball we will naturally have to be a very organized and supportive team so that with the ball we can make the difference.

Second-half control and late Italian response

Juventus sought an equalizer after the restart, but Benfica goalkeeper Lena Pauels made saves against Amaiur Sarriegi in the 47th minute and Redondo in the 53rd minute. Benfica had a 55th-minute header from Davidson disallowed due to an offensive foul on a corner. Shortly after the hour mark, Lund doubled the lead with a direct free kick. Juventus altered the scoreline in the 86th minute when Redondo scored following an assist from Emma Godo, but the hosts failed to level the match before the final whistle.

Team selection and upcoming European fixtures

Both squads entered the match managing injury absences, with Benfica missing Lara Martins and Juventus playing without Portuguese forward Ana Capeta due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament. Portuguese international Tatiana Pinto started in midfield for Juventus against her compatriots, while Andreia Norton and Nycole Raysla began on the Benfica bench. The result reversed the clubs' previous meeting in October 2025, when Juventus won 2-1. Juventus face Napoli in domestic league play on Saturday before visiting Hacken on 30 September. Benfica continue their European schedule with away trips to Arsenal on 28 October and HB Koge on 16 December.