Two in-form teams, Benfica and Atletico Madrid, go head-to-head in an exciting Champions League showdown on Wednesday night at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon.
Both sides started their group-stage campaigns with crucial wins on Matchday 1, and now they’ll be looking to build on that momentum as they clash in what promises to be an intense encounter.
Jambobet remains the best betting prediction site in Kenya, offering accurate tips and insights for this highly anticipated fixture.
Benfica has undergone significant changes this season, most notably with Bruno Lage taking over the reins following the dismissal of Roger Schmidt in late August.
The Portuguese giants have responded well to the managerial shift, going on a four-match winning streak in all competitions. Lage has revitalized the team, with Benfica reclaiming their aggressive and fluid style of play.
Their Champions League campaign began with a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Red Star Belgrade, where an early goal from Kerem Akturkoglou and a stunning free-kick from Orkun Kokcu sealed the win.
Benfica is looking to continue their fine form in Europe, but facing Atletico Madrid will be a much sterner test of their quality and resolve.
Atletico Madrid, under the ever-tenacious Diego Simeone, remains one of the toughest teams to break down in European football.
After a solid start to the La Liga season, they earned a dramatic 2-1 win over RB Leipzig in their Champions League opener, thanks to a last-minute winner from Jose Maria Gimenez.
Most recently, Atletico was involved in a grueling Madrid derby, drawing 1-1 with Real Madrid, courtesy of Angel Correa’s stoppage-time equalizer. That resilience and fighting spirit have become hallmarks of Simeone’s side, and they will be looking to bring that same mentality to Lisbon.
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When and Where: Kickoff Details
- Location: Estadio da Luz, Lisbon, Portugal
- Date: Wednesday, 2 October 2024
- Kickoff Time: 20:00 BST / 15:00 ET / 12:00 PT
- Referee: Serdar Gozubuyuk (NED)
- VAR: Pol van Boekel (NED)
This is only the third competitive meeting between Benfica and Atletico Madrid, with both teams having one win apiece. For those looking to bet on this fixture, Jambobet offers the most reliable predictions, helping you make smarter choices.
Benfica Team News and Predicted Lineup
Benfica enters the match with a few injury concerns, most notably the continued absence of Renato Sanches, who remains sidelined with a muscle injury he sustained in late August. Tiago Gouveia is another absentee, but he is expected to return after the international break.
Despite these setbacks, Bruno Lage is unlikely to make significant changes to the lineup that dismantled Gil Vicente 5-1 over the weekend. Angel Di Maria, who has been a key figure in Benfica’s attacking play, will feature prominently, alongside Kerem Akturkoglou and striker Vangelis Pavlidis.
Benfica Predicted Lineup (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: Trubin
- Defenders: Araujo, Silva, Otamendi, Fernandez
- Midfielders: Aursnes, Luis, Kokcu
- Forwards: Di Maria, Pavlidis, Akturkoglou
Atletico Madrid Team News and Predicted Lineup
Atletico Madrid has injury concerns of their own. Pablo Barrios remains doubtful with a muscle injury, while veteran Cesar Azpilicueta is likely to miss out due to a thigh strain. Additionally, center-back Robin Le Normand is ruled out after suffering a head injury.
Despite these challenges, Diego Simeone has options at his disposal. Marcos Llorente, who was sent off in the Madrid derby, is available for this Champions League fixture and could be deployed as a wing-back if Atletico switches to a back three. Antoine Griezmann and Alexander Sorloth are expected to lead the attack.
Atletico Madrid Predicted Lineup (3-5-2):
- Goalkeeper: Oblak
- Defenders: Witsel, Gimenez, Reinildo
- Midfielders: Llorente, De Paul, Koke, Gallagher, Lino
- Forwards: Griezmann, Sorloth
Key Players to Watch
Benfica: Angel Di Maria
Angel Di Maria’s return to Benfica has brought a new dimension to their attack. The Argentine winger remains a world-class talent, capable of creating and scoring goals from all areas of the pitch. His experience and technical ability will be crucial in breaking down Atletico Madrid’s disciplined defense.
Atletico Madrid: Antoine Griezmann
Griezmann continues to be Atletico Madrid’s talisman. The French forward’s intelligence, movement, and ability to score in crucial moments make him the biggest threat for the visitors. Against a Benfica defense led by Nicolas Otamendi, Griezmann will look to exploit any gaps and lead Atletico’s charge.
Predictions: Benfica vs Atletico Madrid
Both Benfica and Atletico Madrid come into this match in excellent form, but the game is likely to be a tactical battle. Benfica, buoyed by their recent resurgence under Bruno Lage, will aim to control the tempo with their fluid attacking style, while Atletico will likely adopt a more cautious approach, relying on counter-attacks and set-pieces.
Atletico Madrid’s defensive resilience, combined with their ability to strike late in games, could frustrate Benfica. While Benfica’s attack is potent, they may struggle to break down Simeone’s well-organized backline.
Jambobet Prediction: Benfica 1-1 Atletico Madrid
A closely contested draw seems the most likely outcome in this Champions League clash. Benfica’s attacking firepower may be enough to breach Atletico’s defense once, but Simeone’s men are known for grinding out results in tough away games. For bettors, Jambobet offers the best insights and tips, helping you make informed decisions about this match.
