Javier Saviola's second-half goal led Benfica to a 1-0 victory over
Rio Ave that kept it joint leader as the Portuguese league resumed
on Saturday after a three-week break.
The Argentine striker was clear inside the area to score
three minutes into the second half, and send Benfica to the top of
the standings ahead of Braga only on goal difference. It was Rio
Ave's first loss at its Dos Arcos Stadium this season.
Benfica and Braga each had 36 points, FC Porto was next with
29, while Sporting and Nacional had 24 apiece.
Sporting took advantage of its man advantage to beat Lexoies
1-0.
Bruno Gallo was shown a red card in the 70th minute of the
stalemate before Antonio "Tonel" Vilar headed home the winner with
six minutes to play.
Also, Henrique Sereno's 74th-minute goal led Guimaraes to a
1-0 win over Maritimo, which finished with 10 men after Bruno
Marcelo was sent off two minutes after the score.
Porto can stay in touch with the leaders with a win against
Leiria on Sunday, when Olhanense plays Pacos Ferreira and Academica
faces Naval.
Last-place Belenenses is up against Setubal on Monday.
Braga beat Nacional 2-0 on Friday in the first game following
the Christmas break.
