The UEFA Champions League knockout playoffs are heating up, and one of the most intriguing matchups features Monaco vs Benfica. Both teams have had inconsistent domestic form but now have a golden opportunity to reach the Round of 16.
Match Details: Monaco vs Benfica
- Date & Time: Wednesday, February 12, 2025
- UK: 8:00 PM
- US ET: 3:00 PM
- US PT: 12:00 PM
- How to Watch:
- UK TV: TNT Sports
- US TV: Not televised
- Online Streaming: Discovery+ (UK), Paramount+ (US)
Monaco Preview: A High-Risk, High-Reward Approach
Under Adi Hütter, Monaco has been playing an exciting but volatile brand of football. While their attacking play is entertaining, defensive lapses have cost them crucial points. Their recent 4-1 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain highlighted these weaknesses.
Key Players to Watch:
- Takumi Minamino – Creative playmaker with an eye for goal.
- Denis Zakaria – Strong midfield presence and goal-scoring ability.
- Mika Biereth – New signing, expected to add firepower in attack.
Benfica Preview: Unconvincing But Resilient
Managed by Bruno Lage, Benfica has been inconsistent in the Primeira Liga. Their recent narrow wins over Estrela da Amadora (3-2) and Moreirense (3-2) show they can score but struggle defensively.
Key Players to Watch:
- Ángel Di María – Veteran playmaker, capable of turning the game.
- Orkun Kökçü – Midfield engine with excellent passing range.
- Pavlidis – Prolific striker who will be key to breaking down Monaco’s defense.
Team News & Predicted Lineups
Monaco Team News: Mika Biereth Available
Monaco’s European squad has been strengthened with the inclusion of Mika Biereth, but they will be without Christian Mawissa (suspension) and multiple injured players.
Predicted XI (4-4-2)
Majecki; Vanderson, Kehrer, Salisu, Henrique; Akliouche, Zakaria, Magassa, Minamino; Biereth, Embolo
Unavailable:
- Mawissa (Suspended)
- Singo (Injured)
- Teze (Injured)
- Camara (Injured)
- Balogun (Injured)
Benfica Team News: Manu Silva a Doubt
New signing Manu Silva remains a doubt for the match, along with Alexander Bah, while Tiago Gouveia is ruled out due to injury.
Predicted XI (4-3-3)
Trubin; Araujo, A. Silva, Otamendi, Carreras; Aursnes, Luis, Kokcu; Di Maria, Pavlidis, Schjelderup
Unavailable:
- Gouveia (Injured)
Questionable:
- Bah (Injured)
- M. Silva (Injured)
Monaco vs Benfica Key Stats
- Monaco has won only two of their last seven matches in all competitions.
- Benfica has conceded nine goals in their last four Champions League games.
- The last three matches between these teams have seen over 2.5 goals.
- Benfica’s last away win in the Champions League was against RB Salzburg in December 2024.
Monaco vs Benfica Prediction: Goals Galore?
Both sides have attacking talent but defensive vulnerabilities. Monaco’s attacking intent under Adi Hütter should create an open game, while Benfica has shown they can score but also leak goals.
Expect an entertaining clash at Stade Louis II, with both teams finding the net.
Prediction: Monaco 2-2 Benfica
Betting Tip: Over 2.5 goals
Where to Watch & Final Thoughts
If you’re in the UK, you can catch the match on TNT Sports or stream it on Discovery+. Unfortunately, the game won’t be televised in the US, but it will be available on Paramount+.
With both teams eager to secure a place in the Round of 16, expect an exciting encounter with plenty of drama!
