The Champions League last-16 brings another thrilling contest as Benfica welcomes Barcelona to the Estadio da Luz for the first leg of their knockout tie. This matchup comes weeks after their unforgettable nine-goal league-phase showdown, where Barcelona edged Benfica 5-4 in a breathtaking battle.
Barcelona heads into this fixture in sensational form, having topped the league phase with a near-perfect run after an opening defeat to Monaco. The Spanish giants were the highest-scoring side in the group stage, netting an astonishing 28 goals.
Benfica, meanwhile, fought their way into the knockout rounds with a dramatic playoff win over Monaco, advancing after a 4-3 aggregate triumph. Bruno Lage’s side is in exceptional form, winning seven of their last eight matches while remaining locked in a fierce battle for the Primeira Liga title.
Despite their impressive attacking displays, Benfica faces a daunting challenge against a Barcelona side packed with firepower. Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, and Lamine Yamal have been devastating in the final third, while Gavi is expected to return after recovering from illness.
Benfica also has key absences, with Angel Di Maria, Florentino, and multiple others sidelined. The burden of leading the attack falls on Vangelis Pavlidis, who scored a hat-trick in their last meeting with Barca. Bruma returns from suspension, offering more attacking options for Lage.
While another goal-fest like their previous encounter seems unlikely, a high-scoring clash is still on the cards. Benfica’s attacking prowess makes them a threat, but Barcelona’s offensive quality and current form give them the upper hand. Expect Flick’s men to take a crucial first-leg advantage with a 3-1 victory.