The UEFA Champions League is back with another thrilling encounter as Benfica takes on AS Monaco in the second leg of the playoffs on February 19, 2025. This high-stakes match promises to be a nail-biting affair, with both teams vying for a spot in the next round. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the prediction, betting tips, odds, and key insights to help you make informed decisions.
Match Overview
Date, Time, and Venue
- Date: February 19, 2025
- Time: 20:00 GMT / 21:00 CET
- Venue: Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica, Lisbon, Portugal.
Context of the Match
Benfica holds a 1-0 advantage from the first leg, thanks to a goal by Vangelis Pavlidis. The Portuguese giants are in stellar form, having won their last five matches across all competitions. On the other hand, Monaco, despite a recent 7-1 thrashing of Nantes in Ligue 1, has struggled with consistency, especially in away games.
Head-to-Head Record
Benfica has dominated the head-to-head record against Monaco, winning four out of the last five encounters, with one draw. In their most recent meeting, Benfica secured a 1-0 victory in the first leg of this playoff. Historically, Benfica has been a tough opponent for Monaco, especially in European competitions.
Team Form and Key Players
Benfica
- Form: Benfica is on a five-match winning streak, showcasing both offensive prowess and defensive solidity. They’ve scored an average of 2.0 goals per game in their last five matches while conceding just 1.4 goals per game.
- Key Players:
- Vangelis Pavlidis: The Greek forward has been in sensational form, scoring six goals in nine Champions League matches this season. He netted the decisive goal in the first leg and will be crucial in this match.
- Orkun Kökçü: The midfielder has been instrumental in controlling the tempo and creating chances for Benfica.
AS Monaco
- Form: Monaco’s form has been inconsistent, with two wins and three losses in their last five matches. Their defense has been leaky, conceding 10 goals in the same period.
- Key Players:
- Maghnes Akliouche: The young midfielder will need to step up and provide creativity in the final third.
- Mika Biereth: The forward will be tasked with breaking down Benfica’s defense and finding the back of the net.
Betting Tips and Odds
Match Prediction
Benfica is the clear favorite to win this match, given their superior form, home advantage, and historical dominance over Monaco. A 2-1 victory for Benfica is the most likely outcome.
Betting Tips
- Benfica to Win: With odds of 5/6 on Quinnbet, this is a safe bet considering Benfica’s recent form and home advantage.
- Over 2.5 Goals: Both teams have shown attacking intent in recent matches, making this a viable option at odds of 13/20.
- Vangelis Pavlidis to Score: The Greek forward is in red-hot form, and betting on him to score at 6/5 is a smart move.
Odds Summary
- Benfica to Win: 1.83 (1win)
- Draw: 4.20 (Paripesa)
- Monaco to Win: 4.24 (1win)
- Both Teams to Score (Yes): 1.55 (Paripesa).
Injury and Team News
Benfica
- Injuries: Florentino and Álvaro Fernandez are suspended due to yellow card accumulation. Angel Di María and Fredrik Aursnes are injured and will miss the match.
- Predicted Lineup (4-3-3): Trubin (GK); Araujo, Silva, Otamendi, Carreras; Aursnes, Luis, Kökçü; Akturkoglu, Pavlidis, Schjeldrup.
AS Monaco
- Injuries: Al Musrati, Vanderson, and Denis Zakaria are suspended. Aleksandr Golovin, Soungoutou Magassa, and Jordan Teze are injured.
- Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1): Majecki (GK); Vanderson, Kehrer, Salisu, Diatta; Zakaria, Minamino; Akliouche, Embolo, Golovin; Biereth.
Why Benfica is Likely to Win
- Home Advantage: Playing at Estádio da Luz, Benfica will have the support of their passionate home crowd.
- Superior Form: Benfica’s five-match winning streak gives them a psychological edge.
- Historical Dominance: Benfica has won four of the last five encounters against Monaco.
Why Monaco Could Surprise
- Recent Boost: Their 7-1 victory over Nantes could provide a much-needed confidence boost.
- Attack Potential: Despite inconsistencies, Monaco has the firepower to trouble Benfica’s defense.
Conclusion
The Benfica vs. Monaco clash is set to be a thrilling encounter, with Benfica holding the upper hand. However, Monaco’s recent form and attacking potential make them a dangerous opponent. For bettors, backing Benfica to win and over 2.5 goals are the safest options.
Stay tuned for more updates and betting tips as we count down to this exciting match!
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