Benfica vs Barcelona: Champions League Battle in Lisbon

Barcelona’s Strong Position in Europe

Barcelona travel to Lisbon to face Benfica on Champions League matchday seven, aiming to secure their spot in the last 16. Hansi Flick’s side has been in fine form, winning five consecutive games since their opening defeat to Monaco. They currently sit second in the league phase table, all but assured of progression.

However, their La Liga title ambitions took a hit over the weekend with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Getafe. Flick’s rotation policy may come into play for this midweek fixture, ensuring key players are rested.

Benfica’s Push for the Top Eight

Benfica, currently 15th in the league phase table, are fighting to claim a top-eight spot. Bruno Lage’s men have impressed domestically, sitting in a tight three-way race for the Primeira Liga title after a dominant 4-0 victory over Famalicao.

Kerem Akturkoglu has been a standout performer for Benfica, contributing 17 goals and assists this season. His transitional play will be crucial as the Portuguese side aims to exploit Barcelona’s defensive vulnerabilities.

Team News and Predicted Lineups

Benfica

Angel Di Maria is a major doubt for this clash due to injury, while Renato Sanches and Tiago Gouveia are confirmed absentees. Bruno Lage will rely on the dynamic trio of Akturkoglu, Pavlidis, and Amdouni in attack.

Predicted XI (4-3-3): Trubin; Bah, Araujo, Otamendi, Fernandez; Aursnes, Florentino, Kokcu; Amdouni, Pavlidis, Akturkoglu.

Barcelona

Barcelona will be without Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Marc Bernal, and Inigo Martinez. Ferran Torres and Frenkie de Jong could return to the starting XI, while Dani Olmo remains sidelined. Flick may rotate to keep his squad fresh, but key players like Robert Lewandowski are expected to feature.

Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Pena; Kounde, Araujo, Christensen, Balde; Casado, De Jong; Fermin, Gavi, Ferran; Lewandowski.

Score Prediction

Barcelona’s depth makes them a formidable opponent, even with potential rotations. Benfica’s desperation for points and home advantage should make this an intense encounter. Expect an exciting, high-scoring affair with both teams sharing the spoils.

Prediction: Benfica 2-2 Barcelona