The UEFA Champions League is back with a thrilling encounter as FC Barcelona hosts SL Benfica in the second leg of the Round of 16. Fans worldwide are eager to witness this high-stakes match, with both teams vying for a coveted spot in the quarter-finals.
Match Details
- Date & Time: Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at 18:45 CET
- Stadium: Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, Barcelona
- Broadcast Channels:
- Cosmote Sport 8 HD
- Arena Sport 4 HD Serbia
- Sport TV5 Portugal
Market Value of the Teams
Understanding the financial stature of both clubs provides insight into the resources and talent at their disposal.
- FC Barcelona: Approximately €800 million
- SL Benfica: Approximately €300 million
These valuations reflect the clubs' investments in player acquisitions, infrastructure, and global brand presence.
Prominent Players and Their Market Values
Both teams boast a roster of talented individuals who can significantly influence the match's outcome.
FC Barcelona
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Robert Lewandowski: €50 million
- The prolific Polish striker continues to be a goal-scoring machine, leading Barcelona's attack with precision and experience.
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Pedri: €80 million
- At just 22, Pedri has established himself as a midfield maestro, orchestrating play with vision and flair.
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Raphinha: €60 million
- The Brazilian winger's agility and creativity make him a constant threat to opposing defenses.
SL Benfica
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Vangelis Pavlidis: €25 million
- The Greek forward has been in scintillating form, notably scoring a hat-trick against Barcelona in their previous encounter.
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Kerem Aktürkoglu: €20 million
- This Turkish winger's pace and dribbling skills have been pivotal in Benfica's attacking plays.
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Florentino Luís: €30 million
- A linchpin in midfield, Florentino's defensive prowess and ball distribution are crucial for Benfica's strategy.
Team News and Line-ups
FC Barcelona
Injuries and Suspensions:
- Pau Cubarsí: Suspended due to a red card in the first leg.
- Andreas Christensen: Sidelined with a calf injury.
- Marc Bernal: Out with an injury.
Expected Line-up:
- Goalkeeper: Wojciech Szczęsny
- Defenders: Jules Koundé, Ronald Araújo, Íñigo Martínez, Alejandro Balde
- Midfielders: Marc Casadó, Pedri, Dani Olmo
- Forwards: Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha
SL Benfica
Injuries and Suspensions:
- Álvaro Carreras: Out due to injury.
- Manu Silva: Suffered an ACL injury.
- Renato Sanches: Recovering from a thigh problem.
- Ángel Di María: Doubtful with a muscle issue.
Expected Line-up:
- Goalkeeper: Anatoliy Trubin
- Defenders: Tomás Araújo, Nicolás Otamendi, António Silva, Alejandro Grimaldo
- Midfielders: Orkun Kökçü, Florentino Luís, André Almeida
- Forwards: Kerem Aktürkoglu, Vangelis Pavlidis, Bruma
Tactical Overview
FC Barcelona
Under the guidance of Hansi Flick, Barcelona has adopted an aggressive attacking style, focusing on high pressing and quick ball transitions. The midfield trio, led by Pedri, aims to control possession and dictate the game's tempo. Lewandowski's positioning and finishing skills are pivotal in breaking down defenses.
SL Benfica
Managed by Bruno Lage, Benfica emphasizes a balanced approach, blending solid defense with swift counter-attacks. Florentino Luís anchors the midfield, providing stability and linking play between defense and attack. Pavlidis's sharp movements and clinical finishing make him a focal point in their offensive strategy.
Key Battles to Watch
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Lewandowski vs. Otamendi: A classic duel between a seasoned striker and a veteran defender. Otamendi's experience will be tested against Lewandowski's goal-scoring instincts.
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Pedri vs. Florentino Luís: The midfield battle could determine the game's flow. Pedri's creativity against Florentino's defensive acumen promises an intriguing contest.
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Aktürkoglu vs. Koundé: Benfica's winger will challenge Barcelona's right-back with his pace and dribbling, seeking to exploit any defensive lapses.
Recent Form
FC Barcelona
- La Liga: Leading the table with consistent performances.
- Champions League: Secured a 1-0 victory in the first leg against Benfica, with Raphinha netting the decisive goal.
SL Benfica
- Primeira Liga: Maintaining a strong position, showcasing attacking flair.
- Champions League: Aiming to overturn the first-leg deficit and advance further in the competition.
Historical Head-to-Head
The two clubs have a rich history in European competitions, with encounters often producing memorable moments. Barcelona's possession-based style contrasts with Benfica's counter-attacking prowess, leading to tactical battles that captivate fans.
Stadium Atmosphere
The Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, temporarily serving as Barcelona's home ground, is expected to be a cauldron of support. Fans will rally behind their teams, creating an electric atmosphere that could influence the players' performances.
Broadcast Information
For fans eager to catch the action live:
- Cosmote Sport 8 HD: Available in Greece.
- Arena Sport 4 HD Serbia: Broadcasting in Serbia and neighboring regions.
- Sport TV5 Portugal: Covering the match for Portuguese audiences.
Conclusion
The Barcelona vs. Benfica clash promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams showcasing tactical prowess, individual brilliance, and an unyielding desire to progress in the Champions League. Football enthusiasts worldwide will be glued to their screens, anticipating a match that could go down in history.
FAQs
1. What was the result of the first leg between Barcelona and Benfica?
Barcelona secured a 1-0 victory in the first leg, with Raphinha scoring the decisive goal.
2. Is Robert Lewandowski fit for the match?
Yes, Lewandowski is fit and expected to lead Barcelona's attack in the second leg.
3. Which players are unavailable for Benfica?
Benfica will be without Álvaro Carreras, Manu Silva, and Renato Sanches due to injuries. Ángel Di María remains doubtful.
4. How can I watch the match in Portugal?
In Portugal, the match will be broadcast live on Sport TV5 Portugal.
5. What is at stake in this match?
The winner of this tie will advance to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League, bringing them closer to Europe's most prestigious club trophy.