The Estádio da Luz in Lisbon hosts a crucial Champions League clash tomorrow night as Benfica faces Barcelona. Benfica, who sit in 15th place, needs a win to bolster their knockout hopes, while second-placed Barcelona, on 15 points, seeks to secure the top spot and maintain momentum.
Betting Preview
Benfica have three wins, one draw, and two losses in this season’s Champions League, placing them 15th with 10 points—enough for the playoff round. Just three points behind eighth-placed Lille, a victory here would significantly boost their chances of automatic qualification.
The Lisbon side, on a four-match winning streak, recently defeated Famalicao 4-0 and sit second in the Primeira Liga, three points behind leaders Sporting Lisbon. Historically, Benfica has beaten Barcelona twice in nine encounters, including their 1961 European Cup final win and a 3-0 group-stage victory in the 2021-22 Champions League. At home against Spanish clubs in Europe, Benfica’s record stands at four wins, five draws, and five losses.
Barcelona, fresh off a Spanish Super Cup win, are struggling in La Liga, with just one win in their last eight matches—their worst run in 17 years. Despite this, they’re in a strong Champions League position with 15 points from five wins and one loss, sitting second in their group, three points behind Liverpool.
The Blaugrana have had limited success in Portugal, with six wins in 14 matches, and only one away victory against Benfica in the 2012-13 group stage. While they’re well-placed for the knockout stages, a loss here could leave them vulnerable ahead of their final group game against Atalanta.
Stats
- Benfica and Barcelona have faced each other eight times in European competitions, with Barcelona leading the head-to-head record with three wins, four draws, and one loss.
- In their most recent encounter during the 2021-22 UEFA Champions League group stage, Benfica secured a 3-0 victory at home.
- Benfica have won their last five home games across all competitions.
- Barcelona have shown attacking prowess in the Champions League this season, averaging over 2.5 goals per match.
Best Bets & Predictions
Barcelona’s encounter with Benfica promises excitement and great betting value. A Barcelona win at 1.94 looks promising, given their superior form and attacking firepower, despite Benfica’s strong home record.
Expect goals, making over 2.5 goals at 1.45 a safe choice. Both teams’ offensive strengths suggest a high-scoring affair, and the BTTS market at 1.65 adds value, as Benfica’s need to attack could exploit Barcelona’s occasional defensive lapses. Robert Lewandowski is an excellent bet for an anytime goalscorer at 2.03 or first goal scorer at 4.95, given his prolific form.
Prediction: Barcelona to win at 1.94.
Best Bet: Over 2.5 total goals at 1.45.
Value Bet: Lewandowski to score anytime at 2.03
Final Thoughts
Tomorrow’s Champions League clash between Benfica and Barcelona promises to be an exciting showdown, with both teams vying for crucial points in the group stage. While Barcelona enters as favourites due to their strong form and attacking capabilities, Benfica’s home advantage and recent performances add an intriguing element to the match but Hansi Flick’s side should have enough to get all three points.
