The Champions League group stage continues with a thrilling clash between two European heavyweights when Bayern Munich host Benfica at the Allianz Arena on November 6th. Kick-off is at 9:00 p.m.
Both teams have shown solid form in their domestic leagues, but their European campaigns have seen mixed progress so far. Bayern Munich sit in a disappointing 23rd place in their Champions League group after two defeats and a single win, while Benfica have fared better with two wins from their first three games.
Bayern Munich
After a dominant start to the Bundesliga season, Bayern are struggling to translate this form into the Champions League. Their 9-2 victory over Dinamo Zagreb in the opening round was followed by surprising defeats against Aston Villa (0-1) and Barcelona (1-4). However, Munich proved their strength by coming back with three consecutive league wins in which they scored 12 goals and conceded none.
The signing of striker Harry Kane was a game changer for Bayern. The England leader has quickly hit his stride, scoring 17 goals and providing 8 assists in just 14 appearances in all competitions. His partnership with the in-form Kingsley Coman was a key factor in Bayern’s attacking strength. Defensively, the Germans were weakened by injuries to several key players, including midfielders Aleksandar Pavlović and Hiro Ito and full-backs Josip Stanišić and Sasha Böhm.
Benfica
While Benfica sit third in the Portuguese Primeira Liga, they have performed impressively in the Champions League so far. The Eagles started their European campaign with a 2-1 away win against Red Star Belgrade, followed by a sensational 4-0 win against Atlético Madrid at the Estádio da Luz. However, they suffered a surprising 3-1 home defeat against Feyenoord in their most recent Champions League appearance.
Benfica have shown good form in the domestic league, winning their last three league games by an aggregate score of 10-1. Winger Kökçü and striker Pavlidis were key contributors, with the former scoring in the wins against Atlético and Feyenoord. Veteran midfielder Ángel Di María continues to provide experience and creativity for the Portuguese team. Benfica will be without injured midfielders Leandro Barreiro and Tiago Gouveia.
Direct comparison
Bayern Munich have a dominant record against Benfica, winning 9 of their 12 previous meetings and drawing their remaining 3 games. The overall result of these games is a convincing 35:9 in favor of the German champions. Benfica have never beaten Bayern in an official game, although they have managed a few draws.
Tactical analysis
This duel pits Bayern’s potent offense against Benfica’s resilient defense. The German giants have scored an impressive 50 goals in just 14 games in all competitions, led by the in-form Harry Kane. Benfica, on the other hand, have shown their ability to frustrate top teams, as shown in their 4-0 win against Atlético Madrid.
Bayern’s defensive susceptibility to injury could be an area of concern, especially with the creative duo Kökçü and Di María looking to crack the German defence. Benfica’s strong work ethic and ability to turn games around quickly could make them a difficult opponent, but Bayern’s home advantage and their superior squad strength give them the edge.
Prediction: Bayern Munich vs. Benfica
Despite their recent Champions League difficulties, Bayern Munich are the clear favorites in this game. Their accurate attack, led by the in-form Harry Kane, should be too much for Benfica. While the Portuguese team has shown they can surprise, Bayern’s home advantage and the return of several key defensive players make them the likely winners.
Tipp 1: Bayern Munich wins with over 2.5 goals scored (odds 1.82 at Bwin)
Tipp 2: Over 3.5 goals (odds 1.80 at Pinnacle)
