The 2007-08 campaign delivered a deeply turbulent and emotionally charged season for Benfica as Os Encarnados endured three managerial changes and ultimately finished a disappointing 4th in the Primeira Liga, their worst finish in six years. Leading the line was the powerful new signing, Óscar Cardozo, whose 13 league goals proved vital. It was an iconic year for the club that was defined by a dramatic European run to the UEFA Cup Round of 16 and the emotional farewell of club legend Rui Costa, marking a critical transition to a new era featuring emerging stars David Luiz and Ángel Di María.