Benfica slipped up in their pursuit of the Liga title as they were held to a goalless draw at Olhanense and finished the match with ten men.

Half-time substitute Pablo Aimar played only 18 minutes before receiving a straight red card for a foul on Rui Duarte.

That could mean a double punishment for his team, who not only missed the playmaker as they failed to find a breakthrough, but could also see him suspended for the key clash with rivals Sporting CP.

The draw saw Benfica move level with FC Porto at the top of the standings, but the leaders can open up a three-point gap if they beat Pacos Ferreira on Sunday.