Barcelona travel to Lisbon for the second time in just six weeks as they face Benfica in the Champions League Round of 16.
The two teams will square off at the iconic Estadio da Luz on Wednesday, March 5th, in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Barcelona triumphed in a thrilling 5-4 victory over Benfica on January 21st, 2025, in a memorable Champions League encounter.
This win ensured Barcelona finished second in the group stage, allowing them to bypass the playoff round.
In contrast, Benfica faced a more challenging path, edging past Ligue 1’s Monaco in a closely contested two-legged tie to secure their place in the knockout rounds.
Benfica comes into this match well-rested, having not played in the Primeira Liga since February 26th, when they claimed a 1-0 victory over Braga.
Meanwhile, Barcelona has been in exceptional form, securing a commanding 4-0 win over Real Sociedad last weekend to maintain their position at the top of La Liga.
Hansi Flick’s side remains unbeaten in 2025 and is regarded as one of the leading contenders for the Champions League title.
Benfica will rely on their key players to take on Barcelona, though they will be without Andreas Christensen, who is out with a muscle injury.
The Danish defender is not expected to return until April. Ronald Araujo, who was on the scoresheet in Barcelona’s recent win, could see his spot in the starting XI come under threat with the likes of Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez preferred by Flick.
Gavi is a doubt for Barcelona after being ill, but they will be confident with their attacking lineup, which includes the likes of Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Pedri.
Barcelona will be looking to continue their fine form and make it a comfortable win in Lisbon.
While Benfica may create some chances, particularly through their in-form striker Pavlidis, it’s hard to see them slowing down Barcelona’s attacking juggernaut.
Head-to-Head Record (Last 5 Games)
Benfica: 1 win
Barcelona: 2 wins
Draws: 2
Current Form (All Competitions)
Benfica
1-0 win vs Braga (26/02/25)
3-0 win vs Boavista (22/02/25)
3-3 draw vs Monaco (18/02/25)
1-0 win vs Santa Clara (15/02/25)
1-0 win vs Monaco (12/02/25)
Barcelona
4-0 win vs Real Sociedad (02/03/25)
4-4 draw vs Atletico Madrid (25/02/25)
2-0 win vs Las Palmas (22/02/25)
1-0 win vs Rayo Vallecano (17/02/25)
4-1 win vs Sevilla (09/02/25)
Benfica predicted lineup vs Barcelona (4-3-3): Trubin, Araujo, Silva, Otamendi, Carreras; Aursnes, Barreiro, Kokcu, Akturkoglu, Pavlidis, Schjelderup.
Barcelona’s Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1): Szczesny, Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Balde, De Jong, Pedri, Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski
