Barcelona and Benfica are set to clash in a thrilling Champions League Round of 16 first-leg encounter at the Estadio da Luz. With both sides showing strong form, this match promises to be an intense battle between two European giants. Can Barcelona maintain their unbeaten 2025 run, or will Benfica spring a surprise in front of their home crowd?
Barcelona’s Unstoppable Form in 2025
Barca have been in exceptional form this year, going unbeaten since the start of 2025. Hansi Flick’s side silenced critics with a commanding 4-0 victory over Real Sociedad at the weekend, maintaining their position at the top of La Liga.
Their journey to the Champions League knockout stage was dramatic. A thrilling 5-4 win over Benfica in January secured second place in the league phase, ensuring they avoided the play-offs. Now, they return to Portugal with one mission: take control of this tie before heading back to the Camp Nou.
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Benfica’s Strength at Home
Benfica might not be among the tournament favorites, but they have shown resilience. The Portuguese side had to navigate through a tricky play-off round against Monaco, overcoming a scare despite winning the away leg 1-0. They head into this match after a 1-0 victory over Braga, keeping their momentum alive.
With a passionate crowd behind them, Benfica will look to exploit Barca’s defensive vulnerabilities. Striker Vangelis Pavlidis is in red-hot form, having scored a hat-trick in the previous meeting. If Benfica can create chances, they have a serious shot at troubling the Spanish giants.
Key Players to Watch
Barcelona
- Robert Lewandowski – The Polish striker continues to be a goal-scoring machine and will be Barcelona’s main threat up front.
- Lamine Yamal – The young sensation is growing in confidence and could be the difference-maker on the wings.
Benfica
- Vangelis Pavlidis – With his ability to run behind defenders, he will be a major concern for Barca’s backline.
- Orkun Kokcu – The Turkish midfielder has been a pivotal part of Benfica’s attack and will be crucial in breaking down Barcelona’s defense.
- Nicolas Otamendi – The experienced center-back will need to marshal the defense against Barcelona’s attacking threats.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Benfica Predicted XI (4-3-3):
Trubin; Araujo, Silva, Otamendi, Carreras; Aursnes, Barreiro, Kokcu; Akturkoglu, Pavlidis, Schjelderup.
Injuries: Angel Di Maria (hamstring), Florentino Luis (muscle injury), Alexander Bah, Manu Silva (ACL), Tiago Gouveia (shoulder injury).
Barcelona Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):
Szczesny; Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Balde; De Jong, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski.
Injuries: Andreas Christensen (muscle injury), Marc Bernal (out), Marc-André ter Stegen (injury), Gavi (illness, doubtful).
Score Prediction: Can Benfica Stop Barcelona?
Barca’s have been ruthless in attack, scoring freely in recent matches. However, their defense has been shaky at times, and Benfica’s Pavlidis will look to exploit that. While the Portuguese side could cause problems, Barcelona’s firepower should be enough to secure an important away win.
Prediction: Benfica 1-3 Barcelona
How to Watch Benfica vs Barcelona
United Kingdom: discovery+, TNT Sports 3
United States: Paramount+, TUDN.com, Univision NOW, TUDN App, UniMás
Canada: DAZN Canada
Barcelona are looking to cement their status as serious Champions League contenders. Can they continue their unbeaten run, or will Benfica prove to be their toughest challenge yet? Stay tuned for a blockbuster night in Lisbon!
