Barcelona defied the odds in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League (UCL) Round of 16 tie against Benfica. Despite playing with ten men from the 22nd minute, they held firm to secure a crucial 1-0 away win. That resilience could prove vital as they prepare for the return leg at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.
Their weekend La Liga match against Osasuna was postponed due to the tragic passing of their first-team doctor. While this means they will be well-rested, manager Hansi Flick must also keep an eye on their upcoming La Liga title showdown against Atlético Madrid. Despite the distractions, Barcelona will be determined to maintain their unbeaten record in 2025 (W13, D3) and push for a place in the quarterfinals.
The Estadi Olímpic Fortress
Barcelona have turned their temporary home into a fortress. They remain unbeaten in their last seven games at the venue (W5, D2), scoring an average of 3.43 goals per match. That kind of attacking output could spell trouble for Benfica, who must overturn a first-leg deficit against the only unbeaten team in Europe’s top-five leagues this year.
Their ability to start games strongly is another factor that could tilt the tie in their favor. Seven of Barcelona’s last nine home matches saw the opening goal scored before the 30th minute. That early dominance could force Benfica into chasing the game—a dangerous scenario against a side as clinical as Barcelona.
Benfica Faces a Monumental Challenge
Benfica have a daunting task ahead. The Portuguese giants have won just three of their last 24 UEFA matches against Spanish opponents (D8, L13). Furthermore, they have been eliminated in their last four two-legged ties against La Liga clubs.
However, Bruno Lage’s side has reasons to remain hopeful. They head into this clash after a dominant 3-0 league win over Nacional, their eighth victory in ten games (D1, L1). Benfica have also been impressive on the road in the UCL, winning four of their five away matches this season. Three of those wins came by a single-goal margin, suggesting they could push Barcelona to extra time if they can replicate that result.
Key Battle: Szczęsny vs Aktürkoğlu
Barcelona’s veteran goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny will be vital once again. He conceded six goals in his first two UCL appearances this season, including four against Benfica in the league phase. However, he produced a heroic performance in the first leg, making eight saves to keep a clean sheet.
Benfica’s best hope for an early goal lies in the in-form Kerem Aktürkoğlu. The Turkish forward has been clinical, with three of his last four UCL goals coming before the 25th minute. If Benfica are to mount a comeback, they will need him to deliver another big performance.
Prediction: Barcelona to Hold Firm
Benfica have the potential to make this a competitive affair, but Barcelona’s home form and defensive solidity should see them through. The Catalans are likely to start strong, and if they score early, it could kill off Benfica’s hopes. Expect a disciplined performance from Barcelona, leading to a 2-1 home win and a 3-1 aggregate triumph.
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