Benfica faces a challenging task in their Champions League Round of 16 second leg match against Barcelona. Having lost the first leg 1-0 at home, they travel to the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys in Barcelona needing to win to progress to the next round.
Benfica faces an uphill battle to overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit. Their task is further complicated by the absence of Ángel Di María, who is still recovering from a hamstring injury. Nicolás Otamendi’s presence in the starting lineup will be crucial for Benfica’s defensive organization and leadership, offering significant experience to the team.
The other members of the team will have to perform at their very best to achieve the necessary result. Their performance in this match is key to their overall progress in the competition.
Barcelona’s strong start and key players
Barcelona will be looking to secure a place in the next round with a commanding performance at home. Their impressive squad, featuring the likes of Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, and Pedri, presents a formidable challenge to Benfica. The team is expected to field a strong lineup, aiming to utilize their possession-based style to control the game and create numerous scoring opportunities. Their experience and overall squad strength make them strong favorites for this match.
The first leg in Portugal saw Barcelona defeat Benfica 3-1. Raphinha, capitalizing on a superb pass from Lamine Yamal, opened the scoring for Barcelona and make the third goal.
Benfica quickly equalized through a header from Nicolás Otamendi. Barcelona, however, secured a late victory, which sets up a fascinating second leg. This narrow victory highlights the overall strength of both teams and the close nature of the competition. Their ability to compete at the highest level is clear.
The match will be played at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, with a capacity of 55,000. François Letexier of France will officiate the match. The outcome will determine which team progresses to the next round. A victory for Benfica is essential; a draw would send Barcelona into the next round, as would a Barcelona victory.
