Benfica vs Chelsea Preview: Anticipation, Forecasts, and Top Wagers
In the upcoming 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Chelsea are tipped as the favourites to emerge victorious against Benfica, according to football analyst James O'Connor. Here's why:
Chelsea's odds and simulations favour a win, with the Opta supercomputer suggesting they win inside 90 minutes in 45.1% of simulations, while Benfica win in 29.1% of the simulations. The betting odds also reflect this, with Chelsea priced at +120 on the 90-minute money line, while Benfica are +220 underdogs.
Historically, Chelsea have an edge over Benfica, having won all previous meetings between the two teams in all competitions. This head-to-head record could prove crucial in Saturday's match, scheduled for 18:00.
Both teams have displayed impressive form in the group stage. Benfica topped Group C, including a notable 1-0 win over Bayern Munich, while Chelsea secured second place in Group D with a strong 3-0 win over Esperance de Tunis. Despite this, Benfica's record against English opposition is poor, with no wins since March 2014.
Tactical stability and adaptability have been key to Benfica's success, but Chelsea's experience and past success against Benfica give them an edge. Chelsea have also shown defensive stability, keeping 4 clean sheets in their last 6 matches, and have won 10 of their last 12.
Benfica, however, are determined to progress in the competition for the vast prize money on offer. They are without key players Alexander Bah, Florentino Luis, and Manu Silva, and defenders Tomas Araujo and forward Zeki Amdouni are doubtful for the match.
Chelsea finished fourth last season and lifted the UEFA Europa League, adding to their confidence going into the Club World Cup. The betting odds for Chelsea winning to zero are at 3.65, with the predicted correct score being Benfica 0-1 Chelsea at 6.25.
Football analyst James O'Connor, who holds the UEFA A coaching licence and has worked for several clubs in analysis roles, predicts this match. With Chelsea's historical dominance and slightly better odds, they appear to be the more likely winners in this highly anticipated match.
- Football analyst James O'Connor, who has worked for several clubs in analysis roles, predicts that Chelsea will emerge victorious over Benfica in the upcoming 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
- The betting odds for Chelsea winning the match are at +120 on the 90-minute money line, while Benfica are +220 underdogs, reflecting the Opta supercomputer's simulations that favour a Chelsea win in 45.1% of instances.
- Chelsea's historical dominance over Benfica, including an unbeaten record in all previous meetings, could prove crucial in Saturday's match, as they seek to secure their first Club World Cup victory.
- Despite their strong form in the group stage and tactical adaptability, Benfica face challenges due to the absence of key players and injuries, which could aid Chelsea's pursuit of the European-leagues Premier League trophy in the Club World Cup.
