neuralshyam
January 1, 1
5 min read

Porto vs Benfica: Where to Watch Primeira Liga Live in India (2026)

Last Updated: October 14, 2026

The O Clássico is more than just a football match; it is the heartbeat of Portuguese football. When FC Porto clashes with SL Benfica, the intensity is unmatched, and the stakes are always high. For football fans in India, the excitement of watching these two giants battle it out in the Primeira Liga is growing every year.

Whether you are a long-time supporter or a new fan eager to experience the passion of Portuguese football, knowing where to watch the game live is crucial. This guide covers everything you need to know about streaming Porto vs Benfica live in India for the 2026 season, including TV channels, streaming platforms, and kickoff times.

Why Porto vs Benfica is a Must-Watch

Before diving into the viewing options, it is important to understand why this fixture is globally renowned:

Historical Rivalry: Dating back over a century, the rivalry is fierce, passionate, and often defines the league title race.
World-Class Talent: Both teams consistently produce and attract top-tier talent. Watching these matches is a glimpse into the future of European football.
Atmosphere: The stadiums—Estádio do Dragão and Estádio da Luz—are electric. The chants, the colors, and the energy are infectious, even through a screen.

Where to Watch Porto vs Benfica Live in India (2026)

In 2026, the broadcasting rights for the Liga Portugal in India are primarily held by major digital streaming platforms. Here is the definitive breakdown of where you can catch the action.

1. Streaming Platforms (Digital & Mobile)

Streaming is the most popular way to watch football in India due to its flexibility and accessibility.

FanCode

FanCode has established itself as the go-to destination for niche football leagues in India, including the Primeira Liga.

Subscription Model: FanCode typically operates on a “match pass” or “tour pass” basis, meaning you don’t necessarily need a yearly subscription. You can buy a pass specifically for the Porto vs Benfica clash.
Features: They offer multi-language commentary, expert analysis, and real-time stats.
Device Compatibility: Works seamlessly on smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs via casting.

SonyLIV

SonyLIV has historically held rights for European football. While rights can shift, they remain a major contender for Portuguese football broadcasting in India.

Subscription Model: Requires a premium subscription (monthly or annual).
Features: High-definition streaming, multi-device login, and access to a vast library of other sports and entertainment content.
Reliability: Known for stable servers, which is vital during high-traffic matches like O Clássico.

2. Traditional TV Channels

While streaming is on the rise, many fans still prefer the big-screen experience.

Sony Sports Network

Sony Sports channels (specifically Sony Ten 2 or Sony Ten 3) are often the broadcast partners for Liga Portugal.

Channel Numbers (Approximate on DTH services like Tata Play/Airtel Digital TV):
- SD: Sony Ten 2 (Channel 491), Sony Ten 3 (Channel 493)
- HD: Sony Ten 2 HD (Channel 691), Sony Ten 3 HD (Channel 693)
- Note: Channel numbers vary by provider. Always check your local DTH listing.

3. Betting Sites (Live Streaming)

For those who engage in sports betting, many international betting platforms offer live streaming services for registered users.

Platforms: Sites like Bet365, 1xBet, and Unibet often provide high-quality streams.
Requirement: You usually need to have a funded account (a positive balance) or have placed a bet within the last 24 hours to access the live player.
Warning: Only use this method if you are of legal gambling age and gamble responsibly. This is a legal grey area in many parts of India; ensure you are complying with local laws.

How to Stream on Mobile: The Ultimate Guide

For fans on the go, watching on a mobile device is essential.

Download the App: Install FanCode or SonyLIV from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Register: Create an account using your email or mobile number.
Purchase/Subscribe:
- FanCode: Select the “Primeira Liga” pass or single match pass.
- SonyLIV: Select a Premium plan.
Cast to TV: If you want a larger screen, use Google Chromecast or a Smart TV’s built-in casting feature to mirror your phone screen.

Kickoff Times in India

Portugal is in the Western European Time Zone (WET), which is typically 4.5 to 5.5 hours behind India Standard Time (IST) depending on Daylight Savings.

Standard Kickoff (Lisbon Time): 20:30 (8:30 PM)
India Kickoff Time: 01:00 AM (Next Day)
- Exception: If the match is played on a Sunday afternoon in Portugal (approx. 15:00), the India time will be 19:30 (7:30 PM). Always check the fixture list for the specific time.

Pro Tip: Since the match is often late at night, set a reminder on your phone or use the “Add to Calendar” feature on your streaming app so you don’t miss the kickoff.

VPN: Do You Need One?

Generally, no. If you are in India, the local broadcasting rights are held by Indian platforms (FanCode, Sony), meaning you do not need a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions.

However, if you are an Indian expat currently residing outside India (e.g., in the UK or USA) and want to access your Indian streaming account, you would need a reliable VPN set to an Indian server. NordVPN or ExpressVPN are recommended for this purpose.

Alternative Ways to Follow the Match

If you cannot stream the video due to connectivity issues or location constraints, here are the best ways to follow the action live:

Text Commentary: Websites like Flashscore or ESPN provide minute-by-minute text updates. This is very data-light and works even on 2G networks.
Official Social Media: Follow the official Twitter/X accounts of FC Porto (@FCPorto), SL Benfica (@SLBenfica), and Liga Portugal (@LPFP_PT) for live clips and updates.
Radio: While Portuguese radio stations are geo-blocked, apps like TuneIn sometimes carry international feeds or commentary in English.

Conclusion

The 2026 season of the Primeira Liga promises to be thrilling, and the Porto vs Benfica clash is undoubtedly the highlight. For fans in India, FanCode and the Sony Sports Network (via SonyLIV) are your best bets for a seamless viewing experience.

Don’t let the time difference keep you from witnessing history. Prepare your snacks, ensure your internet connection is stable, and get ready to experience the passion of O Clássico live from the comfort of your home.

Are you ready for the big game? Let us know in the comments who you are rooting for!