Benfica vs Chelsea prediction, H2H and probable lineups - 28.06.2025
On Saturday evening in Charlotte, the first round of the FIFA Club World Cup playoffs will feature a thrilling clash between Lisbon's Benfica and London's Chelsea. I'm offering a bet on goals in this encounter with an attractive odds value.
Match preview
The Portuguese side impressed in the group stage, going unbeaten in all their matches. Their attacking confidence and defensive solidity allowed them to clinch the top spot, even amid fierce competition. Of particular note was their victory over Bayern Munich in the third round, where goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin emerged as the hero, pulling off several sensational saves.
The "Eagles" approach the match against Chelsea in fine form. The team not only excels in ball possession but also executes high pressing and shows a clear ability to play for results. The only issue is that, despite topping their group, they've drawn an extremely dangerous opponent in the playoffs, and a very tough challenge awaits them.
This spring, the "Blues" captured the Conference League title, but the quality of opposition in that tournament was relatively modest. At the Club World Cup, Enzo Maresca's men advanced from their group without much trouble, but only managed to finish second. Wins over Espérance and Los Angeles were expected, but the 1-3 defeat to Flamengo exposed the team's real vulnerabilities.
Most notably, Chelsea's frailty on set-pieces and crosses from the wings was glaring, with the Londoners looking far from convincing. And while Chelsea boast greater squad depth, Benfica currently appear more cohesive and balanced. For Chelsea, this match could serve as a genuine test of maturity.
Probable lineups
- Benfica: Trubin – Bah, Silva, Otamendi, Nathan – Kokçu, Neves – Rafa Silva, Mario, Aursnes – Cabral
- Chelsea: Petro Vieira – Gustaf Lagerbielke, Badiashile, Fofana, Chilwell – Caicedo, Fernández, Palmer – Madueke, Nkunku, Jackson
Match facts and head-to-head
- The last three head-to-head clashes all ended in Chelsea victories, but those were played back in 2012-2013
- Chelsea have conceded in 5 of their last 6 international matches
- Benfica have scored in 18 consecutive games
Prediction
Given Chelsea's recent inconsistency and Benfica's excellent form, backing the Portuguese side makes sense. The "Eagles" currently look more organized and confident, especially at the back. Considering Chelsea's current defensive vulnerabilities, particularly inside their own box, Benfica are more than capable of scoring at least once—and possibly more.
