Monaco vs. Benfica | Champions League | Knockout Round Playoffs | 1st Leg | Pre Match

Benfica will make their second trip of the season to the Stade Louis II as they prepare to face Monaco in the crucial Champions League knockout round playoffs on Wednesday night. With a history of competitive encounters between these two sides, the visitors will be eager to replicate their earlier success in the principality, having secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Monaco during the league phase. However, their hosts are navigating a turbulent period of form, raising questions about their ability to mount a strong challenge at this critical juncture in the tournament.

Monaco had, for much of the league phase, been viewed as strong contenders for a top-eight finish and automatic qualification for the last 16. However, a late collapse in form saw them plummet down the standings, ultimately finishing in 17th place and losing the security of a seeded position for these playoffs. Their downward spiral was catalyzed by a disastrous 3-0 defeat at San Siro against Inter Milan on matchday eight, which compounded their earlier struggles, including the damaging loss to Benfica. While their qualification for the knockout round represents a notable achievement following back-to-back group stage eliminations in previous seasons, there is a growing sense of concern surrounding their trajectory as they approach this vital clash.

Recent results suggest that Monaco’s defense is increasingly vulnerable, a weakness that could prove costly against a Benfica side known for its attacking prowess. Since the start of 2025, Monaco have endured a string of challenging fixtures, suffering five defeats in their last nine matches and conceding 11 goals in their past four outings. Their most recent setback came in the form of a humbling 4-1 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain at the weekend, a result that saw them drop out of Ligue 1’s top three for the first time in several months. Such form does not inspire confidence ahead of a fixture that demands composure, tactical discipline, and a clinical edge in front of goal.

History does not favor Monaco in their encounters with Benfica, nor in their clashes against Portuguese opposition in general. They have won just once in eight meetings with teams from Portugal, a solitary victory dating back to 1997 against Sporting Lisbon. Benfica, meanwhile, have developed a knack for frustrating the French side, having taken four points off them in the 2014 Champions League group stage before securing another victory earlier this season. Now, with a place in the round of 16 at stake, Benfica will look to extend their dominance and continue their push toward European success.

For Benfica, this campaign represents an opportunity for redemption following a disappointing group stage exit last season. The Eagles had previously enjoyed successive quarter-final appearances in the Champions League, but their failure to advance beyond the groups last term left much to be desired. Facing the same opponent at two different stages of a single Champions League campaign is a first for the Portuguese club, but given their strong record against French opposition—just three defeats in 13 matches—they will not be intimidated by the challenge that lies ahead.

Confidence in the Benfica camp has surged following a string of positive results, a stark contrast to the turbulence that surrounded the team merely two weeks ago. Manager Bruno Lage found himself under fire after a dramatic 5-4 loss to Barcelona, a match in which his side had led 3-1 and 4-2 before crumbling under relentless pressure. That setback was followed by a disappointing 3-1 defeat at the hands of Casa Pia, prompting frustration among fans and raising concerns about the team's defensive frailties. However, Benfica have since turned their fortunes around, securing a crucial 2-0 victory away to Juventus that secured their place in the playoffs. They have since built on that momentum with back-to-back 3-2 wins over Estrela and Moreirense, narrowing the gap to league leaders Sporting to just four points.

Despite their resurgence, Benfica will need to address ongoing defensive concerns if they are to progress further in the competition. They have conceded 12 goals in their last five matches, an alarming statistic that underscores the need for greater solidity at the back. However, veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi has emerged as an unexpected goal threat, scoring in consecutive matches to help offset the team’s defensive struggles. His leadership and experience will be crucial as Benfica seek to neutralize Monaco’s attacking threats.

Monaco, meanwhile, will have to navigate this tie without several key players, adding to their growing list of concerns. The absence of influential midfielder Lamine Camara will be keenly felt, with Soungoutou Magassa likely to deputize in his place. Magassa has previous experience of finding the net against Benfica, having scored his first professional goal in the reverse fixture back in November, but he will need to step up in a more defensive capacity this time around. Defensive issues are further exacerbated by the suspension of Christian Mawissa following his red card against Inter Milan, while Jordan Teze and Wilfried Singo remain doubtful due to injuries. These setbacks leave head coach Adi Hutter with limited options at the back, a worrying predicament given their recent defensive struggles.

Monaco’s attacking line is also plagued by injuries, with George Ilenikhena and Folarin Balogun both struggling for fitness. As a result, January signing Mika Biereth may be handed his Champions League debut after making an immediate impact since his arrival. The young forward showcased his goal-scoring instincts with a stunning hat-trick against Auxerre and will be eager to continue his impressive form on the European stage. Monaco will need a strong offensive display if they are to overcome their defensive vulnerabilities and secure a positive result ahead of the second leg in Lisbon.

Benfica, too, have their share of injury concerns heading into this fixture. Alexander Bah and Manu Silva were both forced off in the first half of their recent win over Moreirense, casting doubt over their availability for this clash. Angel Di Maria and Arthur Cabral missed that match entirely due to minor knocks, but both are expected to return to the squad. Cabral faces stiff competition for a starting spot, with the in-form Vangelis Pavlidis making a strong case for inclusion in the attack.

This fixture presents a fascinating clash between two teams with contrasting fortunes in recent weeks. Monaco, despite their struggles, possess enough attacking talent to trouble Benfica’s vulnerable backline, but their defensive woes could prove to be their undoing. Benfica, on the other hand, will be buoyed by their recent upturn in form and their strong record against French opposition, giving them confidence as they aim to take a significant step toward the last 16.

With both teams desperate for European success, the stakes could not be higher. Benfica will look to impose their attacking prowess early on, while Monaco will hope to capitalize on home advantage and avoid further defensive lapses. As the Stade Louis II prepares to host another captivating European night, all eyes will be on these two sides as they battle for a coveted spot in the next round of the Champions League.