Benfica vs. Barcelona: Champions League Showdown, Lineups, and Predictions

The UEFA Champions League is heating up, and Barcelona is set to face Benfica on Tuesday in Lisbon. The match at Estadio da Luz promises to be an exciting clash, with both teams fighting for crucial points. For Barcelona, it’s a chance to secure their spot in the next round, while Benfica is battling to stay in the competition.

Here’s everything you need to know about this highly anticipated match, from lineups to predictions and how to watch live.

Match Details

Date: Tuesday, January 21

Time: 3 p.m. ET

Location: Estadio da Luz, Lisbon, Portugal

How to Watch: Streaming on Paramount+

Odds:

Benfica: +195

Draw: +280

Barcelona: +120

Current Standings and Stakes

As Matchday 7 kicks off, Barcelona sits in second place in the Champions League league phase. The Spanish giants have already secured a spot in the knockout round playoffs and are in excellent form. A win against Benfica could further strengthen their chances of reaching the round of 16.

Benfica, on the other hand, finds itself in a precarious position. Currently ranked 15th, they are just three points away from the top eight, which guarantees a place in the round of 16. However, their cushion to remain in the top 24—and avoid elimination—is a slim two points. For Benfica, every match is now crucial.

Barcelona’s Form and Players to Watch

Barcelona has been in stellar form this season. They remain unbeaten in their last five games, a run that includes a commanding victory over Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final. While their grip on La Liga may not be as strong as it once was, their Champions League campaign has been nothing short of impressive.

Key players like Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha are delivering consistent performances. Lewandowski has scored an impressive 26 goals across all competitions this season, while Raphinha has contributed 20 goals. The team’s rising star, Lamine Yamal, has also made his mark with nine goals and 12 assists.

Barcelona’s scoring depth has been a significant strength, with contributions coming from all areas of the pitch. Even defender Jules Kounde has added a handful of goals and assists recently, showcasing the team’s versatility.

Projected Barcelona Lineup

Manager Hansi Flick is likely to field a strong starting XI for this crucial match. Here’s the expected lineup:

Goalkeeper: Pena

Defenders: Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Balde

Midfielders: Casado, Pedri, Gavi

Forwards: Yamal, Raphinha, Lewandowski

With this lineup, Barcelona has the firepower and defensive stability to dominate the game.

Benfica’s Challenges

For Benfica, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Sitting outside the top eight, the Portuguese side needs a strong performance to keep their hopes alive. While they have shown flashes of brilliance this season, consistency has been an issue.

Facing a team like Barcelona, who are in excellent form and full of confidence, will be no easy task. Benfica will need a near-perfect game to pull off an upset.

Prediction: Barcelona’s Strength Shines Through

Barcelona has proven themselves as one of the most in-form teams in Europe this season. They’ve only failed to score in two games across all competitions, highlighting their attacking prowess. With Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Yamal leading the charge, it’s hard to see Benfica keeping them at bay.

Prediction: Barcelona 3, Benfica 0.

Champions League Standings at a Glance

Here’s how the standings work in the league phase:

Positions 1-8: Qualify for the Round of 16

Positions 9-24: Qualify for the Knockout Phase Play-Offs

Positions 25-36: Eliminated

Barcelona is comfortably positioned for the next round, but every point matters as they aim to solidify their standing. For Benfica, however, the pressure is immense, as they teeter on the edge of the elimination zone.

How to Watch the Match

Fans can catch all the action live on Paramount+ at 3 p.m. ET on Tuesday, January 21. Don’t miss this exciting Champions League clash as Barcelona looks to continue their impressive run and Benfica fights to stay in the competition.

Conclusion

This match is more than just a game—it’s a battle of ambition, form, and survival. Barcelona’s confidence and depth make them the clear favorites, but Benfica’s desperation to climb the standings could inspire a surprise performance. Regardless of the outcome, it’s sure to be an exciting showdown in Lisbon.