Benfica began their Champions League campaign with a 2-1 victory away at Red Star Belgrade.
Turkish forward Kerem Akturkoglu marked his first European appearance for Benfica with a goal, latching on to Alexander Bah’s looping cross to finish at the back post.
Orkun Kokcu curled home a brilliant free-kick from 25 yards out with Red Star goalkeeper Omri Glazer rooted to the spot as Bruno Lage’s side increased their first-half lead at Stadion Rajko Mitic.
Felicio Milson pulled one back for Red Star with four minutes remaining, finishing low into the bottom corner, but the hosts were unable to find an equaliser.
It was a frustrating display from the home side, who had low strikes from Rade Krunic and Bruno Duarte saved by Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin.
Forward Zeki Amdouni, who is on loan from Burnley, crashed an effort off the far post for Benfica and Angel di Maria’s shot from the edge of the area flew just over the bar.
The Portuguese side won their opening Champions League match for only the second time in their past eight campaigns in the competition.
