Benfica vs Barcelona: Barcelona has been in excellent form under coach Hansi Flick, but as they prepare for their Champions League round of 16 match against Benfica on Wednesday, they must be cautious. The Catalan giants are currently on an impressive unbeaten run, but Benfica has proven to be a tough competitor.
Following a dominant victory over Real Sociedad, Barcelona now boasts a 15-match unbeaten streak across all competitions, including a thrilling 5-4 win over Benfica in the group stage. Benfica, on the other hand, enters the game with an unbeaten streak of their own, having gone eight matches without a loss. Both teams have demonstrated they can score goals, setting the stage for an exciting encounter.
Where can you watch the Benfica vs Barcelona Champions League round of 16 clash?
Date: Wednesday, March 5
Time: 3 p.m. ET
Location: Estadio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica, Lisbon, Portugal
Live Stream: Paramount+
Odds: Benfica +270; Draw +320; Barcelona -125
Benfica's challenge
Benfica will rely heavily on their Greek striker, Vangelis Pavlidis, who scored a hat trick in the last meeting between these two teams. Pavlidis has been a crucial figure for Benfica in the Champions League, contributing to nine goals in just 10 appearances this season.
However, Benfica’s defensive vulnerabilities will be a major concern, and they will need a more solid defensive performance to have a chance of advancing. With their offensive weapons firing, they’ll hope to disrupt Barcelona’s rhythm and capitalize on any opportunities.
Predicted Benfica Starting XI: Anatoliy Trubin, Alvaro Carreras, Nicolas Otamendi, Antonio Silva, Tomas Araujo, Orkun Kokcu, Leandro Barreiro, Fredrik Aursnes, Bruma, Vangelis Pavlidis, Kerem Akturkoglu
Barcelona's strengths
Barcelona has been on fire in La Liga, winning their last six matches, and they will enter this Champions League tie with great confidence. Barcelona’s attack, led by Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski, has been lethal, and they’re capable of thriving in a high-scoring match.
The team has a wealth of attacking options, and whether Benfica decides to sit back or press forward, Barcelona's versatility makes them difficult to prepare for. The Catalan side’s strong defense and the leadership of their key players will be pivotal in this first-leg clash.
Predicted Barcelona Starting XI: Wojciech Szczesny, Alex Balde, Inigo Martinez, Ronald Araujo, Jules Kounde, Pedri, Frenkie De Jong, Raphinha, Dani Olmo, Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski
Benfica vs Barcelona prediction
Barcelona is expected to take an early lead and control the match, using their depth and experience to manage the game effectively. With one eye on the second leg, they will likely rotate their squad at home but should secure a comprehensive victory in Lisbon.
Prediction: Benfica 1, Barcelona 3
