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Benfica vs. AS Monaco – Champions League Clash: Match Preview, Predictions & Betting Tips

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The UEFA Champions League heats up as Benfica hosts AS Monaco at Estádio da Luz on February 18, 2025, for the second leg of their playoff showdown. With a narrow 1-0 advantage from the first match, the Portuguese side will aim to secure qualification, while Monaco looks to stage a comeback. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the match, including form analysis, player updates, head-to-head stats, expected lineups, and betting insights.

First Leg Recap

Benfica came out on top in a hard-fought 1-0 victory in Monaco. The game’s only goal came in the 48th minute when Vangelis Pavlidis capitalized on a defensive lapse to beat goalkeeper Radoslaw Majecki. Monaco’s chances of equalizing were further hampered when Moatasem Al-Musrati received his second yellow card, leaving the French side with ten men for the remainder of the match.

Team Form & Player Conditions

Benfica

Benfica enters the match in excellent form, having won their last five matches across all competitions. Currently sitting second in the Primeira Liga, they have been consistent both defensively and offensively. However, injuries could play a role, with Alexander Bah and Renato Sanches unavailable. Despite these setbacks, Roger Schmidt has relied on squad depth to maintain Benfica’s strong performances.

AS Monaco

Monaco has been inconsistent in recent weeks, particularly struggling away from home. They currently sit fourth in Ligue 1 but recently showcased their attacking prowess with a dominant 7-1 win over Nantes, where Mika Biereth netted a hat-trick. However, they will be without the suspended Moatasem Al-Musrati, and striker Folarin Balogun remains doubtful due to injury, adding to their concerns.

Head-to-Head History

Benfica has historically been dominant in this fixture. In five previous meetings, the Portuguese side has won four times, with one match ending in a draw. Monaco has yet to claim a victory over Benfica, and the aggregate goal tally favors Benfica 8-4. With their strong home record, Benfica will be confident heading into this crucial fixture.

Predicted Lineups

Benfica (4-2-3-1)

  • Goalkeeper: Odysseas Vlachodimos
  • Defenders: Gilberto, Nicolás Otamendi, António Silva, Álex Grimaldo
  • Midfielders: Florentino Luís, João Mário; David Neres, Rafa Silva, Fredrik Aursnes
  • Forward: Vangelis Pavlidis

AS Monaco (4-4-2)

  • Goalkeeper: Radoslaw Majecki
  • Defenders: Ruben Aguilar, Guillermo Maripán, Axel Disasi, Caio Henrique
  • Midfielders: Aleksandr Golovin, Youssouf Fofana, Eliot Matazo, Krépin Diatta
  • Forwards: Mika Biereth, Breel Embolo

Key Players to Watch

Benfica

  • Vangelis Pavlidis – Scored the winning goal in the first leg and remains Benfica’s main attacking threat.
  • Rafa Silva – A key playmaker, known for his dribbling ability and vision in the final third.

AS Monaco

  • Mika Biereth – Coming off a hat-trick performance, he will be Monaco’s primary goal threat.
  • Aleksandr Golovin – The creative force in Monaco’s midfield, tasked with breaking through Benfica’s defensive line.

Betting Tips & Score Prediction

Benfica’s strong home record and recent form give them the upper hand. Monaco’s defensive weaknesses, coupled with key suspensions, make their task even harder. Expect Benfica to control possession and create more goal-scoring opportunities.

  • Match Result: Benfica to win
  • Both Teams to Score: Yes
  • Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over 2.5
  • Anytime Goalscorer: Vangelis Pavlidis

Final Score Prediction: Benfica 2-1 AS Monaco

With this result, Benfica would advance with a 3-1 aggregate score, securing their spot in the next round. Monaco will need a near-perfect performance to turn the tie around, but Benfica’s experience and home advantage should see them through.