FK Crvena Zvezda vs Benfica Prediction - Champions League
As the UEFA Champions League kicks off its new season, FK Crvena Zvezda will host Benfica in what promises to be a thrilling Group Stage opener at the Stadion Rajko Mitic. Both teams will be eager to make a big start in this revamped competition format featuring 36 teams. Crvena Zvezda, reigning champions of the Serbian SuperLiga, are coming off a solid domestic run but have historically struggled in the Champions League.
Their recent form, however, is promising, with three clean sheets in their last five matches. Benfica, on the other hand, have had a turbulent start to their season, leading to Bruno Lage reclaiming the managerial reins. Despite these challenges, Benfica remains the bookmakers’ favourite to win this fixture, given their recent experience and squad depth.
FK Crvena Zvezda vs Benfica Prediction & Betting Tip
For the upcoming UEFA Champions League match between FK Crvena Zvezda and Benfica, our recommended betting tip is for Benfica to win. This prediction is based on several match facts and insights:
- Benfica is the bookmaker’s favorite, with odds of 1.94 for them to secure a victory.
- Benfica’s greater experience in Champions League matches gives them an edge over Crvena Zvezda.
- Winning this match is crucial for Benfica to secure three important points and start their campaign on a positive note.
Here are the details:
| FK Crvena Zvezda vs. Benfica Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting tip | Odds |
| Benfica to win | 1.94 |
- Benfica’s squad depth and Champions League experience are significant advantages.
- Crvena Zvezda has not won in 10 consecutive matches in this competition, which could affect their confidence.
- The current form of Benfica suggests they are in a b position to secure a win.
Overall, expecting Benfica to come out on top seems a safe bet given their additional strengths and the odds provided.
FK Crvena Zvezda vs Benfica Odds
In the opening round of the Champions League, bookmakers are favouring Benfica over FK Crvena Zvezda. Here’s a quick rundown of the odds:
| FK Crvena Zvezda vs. Benfica Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| FK Crvena Zvezda | 3.75 |
| Draw | 3.69 |
| Benfica | 1.94 |
FK Crvena Zvezda Team Analysis
FK Crvena Zvezda comes into this Champions League opener with a good recent run of form, showcasing three wins out of their last five matches. Their most recent performances include securing clean sheets in three of these five games, underlining their defensive solidity. The team has also been efficient in front of goal, averaging 2.00 goals per game over their last five outings. Their dominance in the Serbian SuperLiga has continued into the new season, proving their attacking and defensive prowess.
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| FK Crvena Zvezda | Napredak | 2-0 (Win) |
| FK Radnicki 1923 | FK Crvena Zvezda | 0-1 (Win) |
| FK Crvena Zvezda | Bodoe/Glimt | 2-0 (Win) |
| Bodoe/Glimt | FK Crvena Zvezda | 2-1 (Loss) |
| Cukaricki | FK Crvena Zvezda | 1-4 (Win) |
FK Crvena Zvezda Key Players
For FK Crvena Zvezda, several players stand out as key figures in their clash against Benfica. Rade Krunic and Mirko Ivanic in the midfield will be crucial, given their roles both in defense and attack. Peter Olayinka and Milson, operating from the wings, will provide width and aim to stretch the Benfica defense. Bruno Duarte da Silva will be expected to lead the line, posing a threat to Benfica’s experienced centre-backs Nico Otamendi and Antonio Silva. Expected lineup for FK Crvena Zvezda:
- Goalkeeper: Marko Ilic
- Defenders: Ognjen Mimovic, Nasser Djiga, Uros Spajic, Young-woo Seol
- Midfielders: Rade Krunic, Timi Max Elšnik, Peter Olayinka, Milson, Mirko Ivanic
- Forward: Bruno Duarte da Silva
FK Crvena Zvezda Suspensions & Injuries
The only notable injury for FK Crvena Zvezda is Omri Glazer, who is sidelined due to a leg injury. His absence creates a significant gap in the goalkeeping options for their Champions League opener against Benfica.
Here’s a detailed look at their injury list:
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Omri Glazer | Leg injury | Potential return unknown |
No players are currently suspended for this clash, giving head coach Vladan Milojevic the freedom to choose his ideal lineup. However, the team must adapt defensively in Glazer’s absence to maintain a b showing against a formidable Benfica side.
FK Crvena Zvezda Tactics and Formation
FK Crvena Zvezda Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-2-3-1
- Key Forward: Bruno Duarte da Silva
- Midfield Trio: Mirko Ivanic (AM), Peter Olayinka (RW), Milson (LW)
- Defensive Strength: Three clean sheets in the last five games, despite the absence of key goalkeeper Omri Glazer.
- Notable Strategy: Strong emphasis on wing play, leveraging the speed and crossing ability of Olayinka and Milson to create scoring opportunities.
With their disciplined double-pivot of Rade Krunic and Timi Max Elšnik providing defensive cover, Zvezda aims to control the midfield and transition quickly into attack. Their ability to maintain structure and exploit the flanks will be crucial against a seasoned Benfica side.
Benfica Team Analysis
Benfica have showcased b form recently, with a record of three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five games. Their recent performances highlight their attacking prowess, averaging 1.80 goals per game while maintaining two clean sheets. Despite a minor setback against Famalicão, they continue to be formidable on the pitch.
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Benfica | Santa Clara | 4-1 (Win) |
| Moreirense | Benfica | 1-1 (Draw) |
| Benfica | Estrela da Amadora | 1-0 (Win) |
| Benfica | Casa Pia AC | 3-0 (Win) |
| Famalicão | Benfica | 2-0 (Loss) |
Benfica Key Players
Benfica brings a wealth of talent to this Champions League opener. The expected lineup includes:
- Goalkeeper: Anatolii Trubin
- Defenders: Alexander Bah, António Silva, Nicolas Otamendi, Álvaro Fernández Carreras
- Midfielders: Leandro Barreiro, Florentino Luís, Orkun Kökcü
- Forwards: Angel Di Maria, Gianluca Prestianni, Vangelis Pavlidis
Veteran winger Angel Di Maria will be crucial, bringing his creative flair and experience. Meanwhile, Vangelis Pavlidis, the main target man, will be looking to capitalize on his opportunities up front.
Key individual battles to watch include Angel Di Maria versus Crvena Zvezda’s left-back Young-woo Seol, as well as Pavlidis against the sturdy defense of Nasser Djiga and Uros Spajic. This matchup could significantly influence the outcome of the game.
Benfica Suspensions & Injuries
Ahead of their Champions League opener against FK Crvena Zvezda, Benfica has a couple of notable absences due to injuries which could impact their performance. Here’s the breakdown:
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| André Gomes | Muscle injury | Late September 2024 |
| Tiago Gouveia | Shoulder injury | Mid October 2024 |
The absence of André Gomes in midfield will reduce their depth in that area. Gouveia’s injury also means fewer attacking options off the bench.
Benfica, however, has no suspensions to deal with, ensuring most of their key players are available for selection. This injury list will test their squad depth as they aim to start their Champions League campaign bly.
Benfica Tactics and Formation
Benfica’s Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-3-3
- Key Forward: Vangelis Pavlidis
- Midfield Trio: Leandro Barreiro, Florentino Luís, Orkun Kökcü
- Defensive Setup: Alexander Bah, António Silva, Nicolas Otamendi, Álvaro Fernández Carreras
- Goalkeeper: Anatolii Trubin
Benfica will likely line up in a 4-3-3 formation, leveraging a balanced approach between attack and defense. The defensive setup has been reliable, boasting two clean sheets in the last five games.
Orkun Kökcü in midfield will be key in linking play between defense and attack, supported by holding midfielders Florentino Luís and Leandro Barreiro. Vangelis Pavlidis up front will be expected to capitalize on attacking opportunities, strengthened by the wing play of Angel Di Maria and Gianluca Prestianni.
