Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League match.
A formidable challenge awaits Benfica in the form of Barcelona, which might prove too much for the Lisbon side. Benfica are on a four-match winning streak, but without the injured Ángel Di María, they are unlikely to withstand the attacking prowess of the Catalan giants.
Benfica
Benfica have not started 2025 in the best of ways—suffered defeats against Sporting (0:1) and Braga (1:2) at the turn of December and January. Following the October international break, they have managed only one win in four Champions League rounds—the dropped points against Feyenoord (1:3), Bayern Munich (0:1), and Bologna (0:0) have cost the Portuguese side a place in the top eight. In addition to Ángel Di María's injury, Benfica are also missing Tiago Gouveia and Renato Sanchez.
Barcelona
In the upcoming round, Barcelona have the opportunity to become the second club after Liverpool to secure a spot in the Round of 16. The Catalans are on a five-match winning streak in the European competition, scoring 3+ goals in each and becoming the first to surpass 20 goals in the Champions League. Clearly, following a draw with Getafe (1:1) in La Liga, Barcelona need to deliver their best on the international stage—their string of victories adds confidence.
Benfica vs Barcelona Prediction
Benfica are likely to create some chances on counterattacks against Barcelona's high line in Lisbon, but they will still face defeat. We are betting on visitors with a handicap.
