Chances were against Benfica heading into the final day of the season. They did beat Moreirense 3-1, but that wasn’t enough, as Porto beat Pacos 2-0, beginning their win thanks to James Rodriguez diving, being awarded a penalty and getting an opponent sent off, eventually leading to a 2-0 win and a third consecutive Portuguese title.

Ricardo Jorge Ferreira Pinto da Silva was the Pacos played sent off for the non-foul. He possibly provided the slightest of touches on Rodriguez, known as one of the most persistent divers in the Portuguese league, which will probably earn him quite a notorious reputation if his potential transfer to Manchester United does go through, but it wasn’t a foul. Even if it was? The “contact” was made outside the box. Rodriguez carried on for another yard before stumbling awkwardly to the ground, but somehow winning the penalty kick that shouldn’t have been given.

In general, Benfica have only themselves to blame. Holding a four point lead three matches before the end, they drew 1-1 with Estoril and put everything on the balance of getting a good result against Porto at the Dragao, a stadium they’ve won only once over the last 22 years. In the 91st minute, it ended badly for Benfica, conceding a goal to Kelvin, which promised Porto won the table-lead again, and held their fortunes in their own hands. They needed a little bit of help from the referee, but it was enough to win another championship, and leave Benfica brokenhearted once again.