Champions League
Benfica
MonacoThe UEFA Champions League knockout stage heats up as Benfica vs Monaco Champions League prediction takes center stage in Lisbon. After a tense 1-0 victory for Benfica in the first leg, the Eagles hold a narrow advantage heading into Tuesday’s decisive clash. With high stakes, key absences, and tactical intrigue, this showdown promises drama. Here’s our exclusive preview, team news, and bold prediction.
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— Match Spoots (@matchspoots) February 17, 2025
Benfica vs Monaco Champions League Prediction: Match Overview
Kick-off Details:
- Date/Time: Tuesday, December 18, 2025
- UK: 8:00 PM
- US ET: 3:00 PM / PT: 12:00 PM
- Venue: Estadio da Luz, Lisbon
How to Watch:
- UK: TNT Sports (TV), Discovery+ (Streaming)
- US: Paramount+ (Streaming)
Benfica’s first-leg triumph at Stade Louis II, courtesy of Vangelis Pavlidis’ second-half strike, puts them in pole position. However, Monaco’s weekend demolition of Nantes (7-1) showcased their attacking firepower, setting the stage for a thrilling rematch.
Benfica vs Monaco Champions League Prediction: Team News and Lineups
Benfica’s Squad Updates: Di Maria Sidelined
Bruno Lage’s side faces setbacks with Angel Di Maria (muscle injury) ruled out, alongside Manu Silva and suspended midfielder Florentino Luis. Despite this, their recent five-match winning streak, including a gritty 1-0 win over Santa Clara, highlights resilience.
Predicted XI (4-3-3):
Trubin; Sahl, A. Silva, Otamendi, Carreras; Aursnes, Felix, Kokcu; Akturkoglu, Pavlidis, Schjelderup
Unavailable: Di Maria, Luis, Silva, Bah, T. Araujo
Monaco’s Suspension Crisis: Key Players Missing
Monaco’s task is complicated by suspensions to midfield enforcer Al Musrati, Vanderson, and Denis Zakaria, plus injuries to Golovin and Singo. Yet, Mika Biereth’s hat-trick against Nantes proves their attack remains lethal.
Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):
Majecki; Ouattara, Kehrer, Salisu, Diatta; Magassa, Camara; Akliouche, Embolo, Minamino; Biereth
Unavailable: Zakaria, Musrati, Vanderson, Golovin, Singo
Benfica vs Monaco: Tactical Analysis and Key Stats
Benfica’s European Ambitions
Benfica’s aggressive style under Lage has yielded 14 goals in their last five matches. Pavlidis (8 UCL goals this season) and playmaker Orkun Kokcu will spearhead their attack, targeting Monaco’s weakened midfield.
Monaco’s All-Out Attack Strategy
With defensive gaps, Monaco must prioritize offense. Biereth and Breel Embolo’s physicality could exploit Benfica’s high line, while Takumi Minamino’s creativity will be vital.
Key Stats:
- Benfica have kept 4 clean sheets in their last 6 home games.
- Monaco average 2.3 goals per match in Ligue 1 but conceded 1.5 goals per UCL away game.
Benfica vs Monaco Champions League Prediction: Final Forecast
Expect fireworks as Monaco chase the game and Benfica counter-attack. While Benfica’s defense has been sturdy, Monaco’s desperation could breach their backline. Both teams to score (+120) is our top tip, with a 2-1 win for Benfica sealing their progression.
Final Score Prediction: Benfica 2-1 Monaco (3-1 Agg.)
Betting Tip: Both Teams to Score – Yes
Odds: +120 (Check your bookmaker for latest updates)
Will Benfica’s European pedigree prevail, or can Monaco’s attacking flair script a comeback? Tune in Tuesday for a UCL night to remember.
Benfica vs Monaco FAQs
How to Watch the Benfica vs Monaco Champions League Match?
UK viewers can tune into TNT Sports or stream via Discovery+. In the US, the game is available exclusively on Paramount+.
What Are Benfica’s Key Absences?
Angel Di Maria (injury), Florentino Luis (suspension), and defender Tomás Araujo (injury) are ruled out, weakening their attacking depth.
Can Monaco Overcome Their Suspensions?
Monaco’s midfield will miss suspended duo Al Musrati and Denis Zakaria, forcing manager Adi Hütter to rely on youth like Magassa and Camara.
Why Is the Benfica vs Monaco Champions League Prediction Leaning Toward Goals?
Both teams average over 2 goals per game in their domestic leagues, and Monaco’s defensive vulnerabilities (especially without Musrati) favor an open match.
What’s the Significance of This Match for Benfica?
Advancing would mark Benfica’s first UCL quarterfinal since 2022, bolstering their reputation as Portugal’s top European contender.
Will Monaco’s Attack Threaten Benfica’s Defense?
Yes. Biereth’s hat-trick against Nantes and Embolo’s physicality could exploit gaps in Benfica’s high defensive line.
