Benfica vs Barcelona is set to be a thrilling encounter in the UEFA Champions League. This high-stakes match pits two European giants against each other, with both teams eager to secure a crucial victory. Benfica, playing on their home turf at the Estádio da Luz, will be looking to leverage their passionate supporters and recent strong form to overcome the Catalan challenge. Barcelona, on the other hand, will aim to utilize their attacking prowess and European experience to secure a positive result on the road. This Benfica vs Barcelona preview will delve into the key aspects of the game, providing predictions, predicted lineups, and all the essential information you need to know.
Benfica vs Barcelona: Match Preview
Benfica enters this Benfica vs Barcelona clash on the back of a resounding 4-0 victory over Famalicão in their domestic league. They also secured a win against Farense in the Taça de Portugal, demonstrating their strong form across competitions. However, they face a formidable opponent in Barcelona, who despite a recent draw with Getafe in La Liga, possess a potent attacking force and a wealth of experience in the Champions League.
Barcelona will be keen to bounce back from their La Liga stumble and secure a strong result in this crucial Benfica vs Barcelona fixture. Their attacking lineup, even with the absence of Dani Olmo, is capable of causing problems for any defense. The return of Ansu Fati provides a further boost to their attacking options.
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Benfica vs Barcelona: Predictions
Predicting the outcome of this Benfica vs Barcelona match is a challenging task. Both teams have the potential to win, and the match could easily swing in either direction. Benfica’s home advantage and recent form give them a fighting chance. However, Barcelona’s individual quality and experience in high-pressure European matches might give them the edge. A close contest is anticipated, with a potential scoreline of 1-1 or a narrow victory for either side.
Benfica vs Barcelona: Predicted Lineups
Benfica (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Vlachodimos
- Defenders: Bah, António Silva, Otamendi, Grimaldo
- Midfielders: Florentino, Kokçu; João Mário, Rafa Silva, Aursnes
- Forward: Gonçalo Ramos
Barcelona (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: Iñaki Peña
- Defenders: Koundé, Araújo, Christensen, Balde
- Midfielders: De Jong, Romeu, Gavi
- Forwards: Raphinha, Lewandowski, Fati
Benfica vs Barcelona: Round, Date, and Time
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Competition | UEFA Champions League |
| Round | Group Stage, Round 7 |
| Date | Wednesday, January 22, 2025 |
| Time | 1:30 AM IST |
| Venue | Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica, Lisbon, Portugal |
Benfica vs Barcelona: Schedule and Broadcast Information
The Benfica vs Barcelona match will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network in India. In the US, the match will be available on Paramount+ and Vix+. In the UK, viewers can catch the action on BT Sport.
Where to Watch Benfica vs Barcelona
- India: Sony Sports Network
- US: Paramount+, Vix+
- UK: BT Sport
Benfica vs Barcelona: Team News
Benfica will be boosted by the return of Ángel Di María, who has recovered from injury. However, they will be without Renato Sanches and Tiago Gouveia, who remain sidelined.
For Barcelona, Dani Olmo is ruled out due to a muscle strain, and Marc-André ter Stegen is also unavailable due to injury.
Conclusion
The Benfica vs Barcelona clash promises to be a captivating contest between two European heavyweights. Both teams have their strengths and weaknesses, and the match could go either way. With crucial points at stake, expect a fiercely contested battle with plenty of drama and excitement. Make sure to tune in and witness this Champions League spectacle unfold.