AS Monaco will host Benfica in the first leg of their Champions League playoff tie at Stade Louis II. Both teams ended the group phase with 13 points, but their league form has been inconsistent. Monaco has been struggling in domestic competitions, while Benfica is trying to recover from recent defensive issues. This match promises to be a close contest as both sides aim to secure a spot in the round of 16.
Match Details:
- Date: February 13, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 1:45 AM (Nepali Time)
- Venue: Stade Louis II, Fontvieille, Monaco
Head-to-Head Record:
- Total Matches Played: 3
- Monaco Wins: 0
- Benfica Wins: 2
- Draws: 1
Match Officials:
- Referee: Maurizio Mariani (Italy)
- VAR: Daniele Chiffi (Italy)
Team News:
AS Monaco:
Monaco has injury concerns and suspensions, but they have a talented squad.
- Lamine Camara is out due to injury.
- Christian Mawissa is suspended.
- Wilfried Singo and Jordan Teze are doubts.
- Mika Biereth could make his first Champions League start for Monaco.
- Folarin Balogun and George Ilenikhena are unlikely to feature.
Predicted Lineup:
- Majecki (GK), Vanderson, Kehrer, Salisu, Henrique, Zakaria, Magassa, Akliouche, Golovin, Ben Seghir, Biereth
Benfica:
Benfica will be without key players, but their attacking strength should help them in this tie.
- Angel Di Maria is expected to play despite missing the weekend’s match.
- Arthur Cabral may start on the bench, with Vangelis Pavlidis in good form.
- Alexander Bah and Manu Silva are both out with knee injuries.
- Renato Sanches is doubtful with a thigh injury.
Predicted Lineup:
- Trubin (GK), Araujo, Silva, Otamendi, Fernandez, Luis, Aursnes, Kokcu, Di Maria, Pavlidis, Schjelderup
Match Prediction:
Monaco has been struggling recently, and despite their attacking potential, Benfica’s depth and experience should see them through to a positive result. A draw is likely, with both teams focusing on getting a foothold in the tie.
Prediction: Monaco 1-2 Benfica
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