The UEFA Champions League roars back to life this Tuesday with an enticing clash in Portugal as high-flying Barcelona visit a determined Benfica. Both sides have storied European histories, but current form and stakes ensure this meeting is a spectacle in the making.
Match Preview – Benfica vs Barcelona
Match: Benfica vs Barcelona
Competition: UEFA Champions League 2024/25
Date: 21 Jan 2025
Venue: Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica
Time: 20:00 GMT, 15:00 EST
Barcelona, sitting second in the competition with 15 points from six matches, have been an attacking juggernaut. Their tally of 21 goals is the highest in the tournament this season, underscoring their breathtaking offensive form. After an opening-day stumble against Monaco, the Catalan giants have bounced back in style, winning their last five games convincingly. Their scalps include European heavyweights Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, proving their mettle under pressure.
Central to Barcelona’s success is their electrifying front three, which has outshone any attacking trio in Europe this season in terms of goal contributions. Robert Lewandowski has been at the forefront, leading the Champions League scoring charts with seven goals. His clinical finishing, combined with the creativity of his attacking partners, Raphinha and Lamine Yamal, has made Barcelona a nightmare for defenders.
Benfica, meanwhile, have had a more modest campaign. They currently sit 15th in the standings with 10 points from six matches. Their recent form—two wins, one draw, and two defeats in their last five games—has been decent but inconsistent. However, victories over Atlético Madrid and Monaco highlight their ability to punch above their weight.
Historically, this fixture has been tightly contested. In six previous Champions League meetings, there have been three draws, two wins for Barcelona, and one for Benfica. The hosts will take comfort in knowing they’ve managed to trouble Barcelona in the past.
While Benfica will rely on home advantage and their tenacious spirit, Barcelona’s attacking firepower and recent form make them the favorites. The visitors’ front line, led by Lewandowski, is a well-oiled machine that thrives under pressure, and they’ll be looking to add another victory to their impressive run.
The stage is set for a thrilling battle between Barcelona and Benfica. Can the Portuguese side pull off an upset, or will the Catalans soar higher in their quest for European glory? All eyes will be on the Estádio da Luz as the two giants lock horns.
Benfica vs Barcelona Champions League Form
| Teams | Benfica | Barcelona |
| From | W W L L W D | L W W W W W |
| Goals Scored | 10 | 21 |
| Goals Conceded | 7 | 7 |
| Last Match | Benfica 0-0 Bologna | Dortmund 2-3 Barcelona |
Just as predicted. Benfica pulled up and upset, but Barca soared higher.