SL Benfica's first-choice goalkeeper José Moreira will be sidelined for "at least six months" after surgery to his right knee. "The operation was needed to solve a problem with arthritis, to strengthen the cartilage," said a club statement.

Goalkeeping problem
Moreira, 23, was injured in the Portuguese Liga game against Vitória SC on 3 October. He had played both of Benfica's UEFA Champions League Group D matches – a win against LOSC Lille Métropole and defeat by Manchester United FC – prior to the draw at Villarreal CF on Tuesday. Quim started the Matchday 3 encounter but had to be substituted by No3 keeper Rui Nereu on 29 minutes due to injury. The 19-year-old Nereu is now expected to make his Liga debut against CF Estrela da Amadora on Saturday.