class=”article_teaser__2t5do”>Having failed to win on matchday one, both sides will be going for the win in the Portuguese capital, meaning there should be goals at both ends
Barcelona travel to the Estadio da Luz to face Benfica on matchday two of the Champions League with Ronald Koeman’s side already facing a crucial game in Group E of the competition.
The Blaugrana were comfortably beaten 3-0 by Bayern Munich in their opening match of the tournament and another defeat against the in-form Portuguese side would leave Barca in a difficult position.
Benfica vs Barcelona latest odds
Jorge Jesus’ side were held to a 0-0 draw away to Dynamo Kyiv on matchday one but domestically the Lisbon outfit are flying, having won their opening seven league games of the season to sit four points clear at the top of the Primeira Liga.
A home win for Benfica is priced at 9/5 (2.80) with bet365 while Barcelona can be backed at 6/4 (2.50) and the draw is offered at 5/2 (3.50).
Benfica vs Barcelona team news
The Blaugrana were boosted by the return of Ansu Fati at the weekend, with the teenager marking his return from nearly 11 months out injured by coming off the bench to score against Levante.
Ansu’s return is being carefully managed and if he features at all on Wednesday evening it will be as a substitute once more.
Barca remain without Ousmane Dembele, Martin Braithwaite and Sergio Aguero, while Jordi Alba is likely to miss out as well, although Pedri could return in midfield. The hosts are missing injured forward Haris Seferovic.
Benfica vs Barcelona preview
Benfica come into the game full of confidence and with plenty of expectation having begun the season in impressive fashion.
Jorge Jesus has amassed a squad with plenty of European experience and they know their home form will be key to getting out of an extremely tough group.
With Bayern Munich looking the strongest outfit in Group E by some distance, it could be a straight battle between Benfica and Barca for second place, and even at this early stage, Wednesday’s match feels vital.
Barcelona for their part saw their spirits lifted by a much-needed 3-0 victory over Levante on Sunday and they head to the Portuguese capital with some pressure temporarily eased, following the euphoria surrounding Ansu Fati’s return.
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With both teams knowing how important a win could be, backing a game with goals at both ends makes sense.
Benfica vs Barcelona tips & predictions
Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals is priced at evens (2.00) and looks like an appealing option.
Odds correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.