UEFA Champions League
Barcelona
BenficaThe UEFA Champions League knockout stages always deliver thrilling encounters, and Barcelona vs Benfica is no exception. After a tense first-leg battle in Lisbon, where fine margins separated the two sides, the return fixture at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys promises to be another captivating contest.
Barcelona secured a narrow win in Portugal, thanks to a stunning strike from Raphinha, despite being reduced to ten men after Pau Cubarsí’s first-half dismissal. Now, with home advantage, the Blaugrana will look to finish the job and advance to the next round.
📅 Tuesday’s Champions League Fixtures 🏆
— Match Spoots (@matchspoots) March 10, 2025
🔥 Exciting clashes await in Europe's biggest competition:#UCL #ChampionsLeague pic.twitter.com/a6YyleHFf5
Barcelona Preview: Focused Despite an Emotional Setback
Barcelona’s preparations for this fixture were affected by a tragic event last weekend, as their scheduled La Liga clash with Osasuna was postponed following the passing of their first-team doctor, Carlos Minarra Garcia.
Despite the emotional weight, the team remains in the hunt for a treble. They sit atop La Liga, hold a strong position in the Copa del Rey semi-finals, and are now eyeing a deep run in the Champions League. With their attacking prowess on full display this season, they will aim to put Benfica under pressure early.
Barcelona Team News: Defensive Concerns
One key issue for Barcelona is the suspension of Pau Cubarsí, who saw red in the first leg. Additionally, Andreas Christensen and Marc Bernal are sidelined due to injuries, while Marc-André ter Stegen remains unavailable for the European squad.
🔹 Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):
Szczęsny; Koundé, García, Martínez, Balde; De Jong, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski
🔹 Unavailable: Cubarsí (Suspended), Christensen (Injured), Bernal (Injured), Ter Stegen (Injured)
Benfica Preview: Tactical Approach is Key
Benfica came into the first leg with high expectations but struggled to break down Barcelona even after gaining a numerical advantage. Their challenge now is even greater, as they must overturn the deficit away from home.
With Barcelona’s high defensive line, Benfica may look to exploit counter-attacks, using pacey forwards like Vangelis Pavlidis and Kerem Akturkoglu. If they can stay disciplined at the back and take their chances in transition, they could cause problems for the home side.
Benfica Team News: Defensive Woes Continue
Much like Barcelona, Benfica will also be without a key defender due to suspension—former Manchester United full-back Álvaro Carreras. They also face injury concerns with key players such as Ángel Di María and Manu Silva missing.
🔹 Predicted XI (4-3-3):
Trubin; Araujo, A. Silva, Otamendi, Dahl; Kökçü, Aursnes, Barreiro; Akturkoglu, Pavlidis, Schjelderup
🔹 Unavailable: Bah (Injured), Gouveia (Injured), Carreras (Suspended), M. Silva (Injured), Di María (Injured)
Barcelona vs Benfica: Key Battles to Watch
💥 Lewandowski vs Otamendi
Barcelona’s experienced striker Robert Lewandowski will look to lead the attack against Benfica’s veteran defender Nicolás Otamendi. If Lewandowski finds space, he could make life difficult for the visitors.
💥 De Jong vs Kökçü
Midfield control will be crucial. Frenkie de Jong’s ability to dictate play will be tested against Orkun Kökçü, who must disrupt Barcelona’s rhythm while providing a creative spark for Benfica.
💥 Yamal vs Araujo
Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s young sensation, will look to exploit the right flank, going head-to-head with Alexander Araujo. If Yamal finds room to operate, he could be a game-changer.
Barcelona vs Benfica Prediction
Barcelona’s attacking form this season has been outstanding, netting over 140 goals in all competitions. Playing at home, with eleven men this time, they are favorites to dominate possession and control the tempo.
However, Benfica will be desperate to turn things around, and with Barcelona’s aggressive approach, they could find openings on the counterattack.
🔹 Prediction: Barcelona 3-1 Benfica
🔹 Betting Tip: Barcelona to win & over 2.5 goals
FAQs
Where is the Barcelona vs Benfica match being played?
The match will take place at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, Barcelona.
What time does Barcelona vs Benfica start?
Kick-off is scheduled for Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at 5:45 PM (UK), 12:45 PM (ET), and 9:45 AM (PT).
How can I watch Barcelona vs Benfica live?
- UK: TNT Sports (TV), Discovery+ (Online)
- US: Not televised (TV), Paramount+ (Online)
Who are the key players to watch in Barcelona vs Benfica?
For Barcelona, Lewandowski and Raphinha are crucial, while Benfica will rely on Pavlidis and Akturkoglu.
Which team has a better head-to-head record?
Historically, Barcelona has had the edge over Benfica in European competitions.
What is the latest injury update for both teams?
Barcelona will miss Cubarsí (suspended) and Christensen (injured), while Benfica will be without Carreras (suspended) and Di María (injured).
