Barcelona’s impressive form in the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League has placed them in a commanding position as they head into their final group stage match against Benfica in Lisbon on Tuesday night. The Catalan giants have been flawless in the group stage so far, securing five straight wins, and they sit just behind Liverpool in the standings. With a place in the knockout rounds already almost guaranteed, manager Hansi Flick could take the opportunity to rotate his squad and rest some key players as he looks ahead to the challenges of La Liga and the upcoming fixtures.
However, despite the luxury of having secured progression in Europe, Barcelona’s recent domestic form has been a cause for concern. A disappointing 1-1 draw against Getafe means that their La Liga title hopes have suffered a blow, leaving Flick with a difficult balancing act between managing his squad in Europe and trying to recover in the league. Nonetheless, Barcelona will be eager to continue their strong Champions League campaign, and Flick will look to field a competitive lineup to secure all three points against a capable Benfica side.
Here’s a detailed look at how Barcelona could line up against Benfica and the key tactical considerations that Flick will take into account.
Barcelona’s Champions League Dominance: An Opportunity to Rotate
Barcelona’s strong position in the group stage of the Champions League has put them in a comfortable spot heading into their final match of the phase. Their 3-2 win over Borussia Dortmund last month was a pivotal moment, effectively securing their place in the round of 16. With five consecutive victories in the group, Barcelona has been one of the standout teams in the competition, and Flick has reaped the rewards of a squad brimming with talent.
However, with Barcelona also chasing the La Liga title, the demands on the squad have been high. This presents an opportunity for Flick to rotate some players ahead of Barcelona’s domestic fixtures. The upcoming match against Benfica could see key players rested, with fringe members of the squad given a chance to prove their worth in a competitive European match.
Barcelona Predicted Lineup vs Benfica (4-2-3-1)
Here’s the predicted lineup for Barcelona’s Champions League clash against Benfica in Lisbon, with some key rotations expected due to their favorable position in the competition.
Goalkeeper: Inaki Pena
In the absence of Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who has been sidelined with an injury, Inaki Pena has stepped up to become Barcelona’s first-choice goalkeeper in recent weeks. The young Spanish keeper has been solid in his performances, including keeping clean sheets in some vital Champions League fixtures. Despite some occasional rotation, Flick is likely to continue with Pena in goal for this match, particularly as the team looks to maintain their momentum in the competition.
Pena’s calmness under pressure and his ability to distribute the ball effectively will be important as Barcelona looks to control possession and build from the back. While Wojciech Szczesny did start in the Supercopa semi-final, Pena has since regained his starting role and will likely retain it for the trip to Lisbon.
Right-back: Jules Kounde
Jules Kounde has been one of Barcelona’s standout performers this season, and the French full-back has been playing a key role in both defense and attack. Kounde’s ability to drive forward and support the attack has been instrumental in Barcelona’s offensive play, and he even managed to score in the recent La Liga game against Getafe. His attacking runs and ability to provide width on the right flank will be crucial in breaking down Benfica’s defensive structure.
While Barcelona has several options at right-back, including Sergi Roberto, Kounde’s recent form suggests he will continue to start in the position, even with the potential for rotation in other areas of the team. His defensive qualities will also be vital as Barcelona looks to stifle the attacking threat posed by Benfica’s wingers.
Centre-back: Ronald Araujo
Ronald Araujo has been a key figure in Barcelona’s defense and is expected to start in central defense against Benfica. The Uruguayan international has been a rock at the back, with his physicality and aerial prowess making him one of the most dominant defenders in Europe. Araujo has recently returned from injury and has slotted seamlessly back into the team, taking on a leadership role in the absence of some other key defenders.
As the Barcelona captain, Araujo will be tasked with marshaling the defense and providing the team with stability, especially as Benfica will look to test Barcelona with their counter-attacking style. His ability to deal with aerial threats and his pace in one-on-one situations will be important in ensuring Barcelona’s defensive solidity.
Centre-back: Andreas Christensen
After a long spell out due to injury, Andreas Christensen is expected to make his return to the starting lineup against Benfica. The Danish center-back has been a reliable figure for Barcelona since his arrival and provides the team with composure and intelligence in defense. Christensen’s ball-playing abilities and tactical awareness have allowed Barcelona to build play from the back, and he will be looking to build on his performances as he returns to full fitness.
With Pau Cubarsi having played a lot of football recently, it would be wise for Flick to rest the young center-back and allow Christensen to partner Araujo in central defense. This pairing should provide Barcelona with the necessary experience and stability to deal with Benfica’s attacking threats.
Left-back: Alejandro Balde
Alejandro Balde has been one of Barcelona’s most exciting players this season. The Spanish left-back has enjoyed a resurgence in form, re-establishing himself as a key figure in the starting lineup after a somewhat inconsistent start to the 2024/25 season. Balde’s ability to bomb forward and provide an attacking outlet on the left side has made him a valuable asset for Barcelona, and his performances in recent weeks have been impressive.
Balde will face a tough challenge in this match, as Benfica’s Kerem Akturkoglu will be looking to exploit any space left behind by the Barcelona defense. Balde’s pace and defensive discipline will be essential in nullifying Akturkoglu’s threat, while also providing support in attack.
Central Midfield: Marc Casado
Marc Casado has been a constant presence in Barcelona’s midfield this season, often playing as a holding midfielder. Casado’s ability to break up opposition attacks and his tenacity in midfield have made him a key figure for Barcelona. Despite his relatively low profile, the 22-year-old has played a crucial role in the team’s success in both domestic and European competitions.
Flick is unlikely to make changes in this position, as Casado’s reliability means he will likely start again in Lisbon. His role will be to shield the defense, break up any counter-attacks, and provide the platform for Barcelona’s more creative midfielders to influence the game.
Central Midfield: Frenkie de Jong
Frenkie de Jong is expected to return to the starting lineup after being rested for the match against Getafe. The Dutch midfielder has been a key player for Barcelona in recent seasons, providing both creativity and defensive stability in the middle of the park. De Jong’s vision, passing range, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game make him an essential figure in Barcelona’s midfield.
With Pedri’s fitness still a concern, De Jong will be called upon to play a more prominent role in this match. His partnership with Casado will be vital in ensuring Barcelona controls possession and imposes their style of play on Benfica.
Right Midfield: Fermin Lopez
Fermin Lopez has impressed with his performances in a more advanced midfield role this season. While Lamine Yamal has garnered a lot of attention for his performances, Lopez has quietly been a key figure for Barcelona, offering creativity and flair in attacking situations. With Kounde marauding up the right flank, Lopez will likely be deployed on the right wing but given the freedom to drift inside and operate centrally.
Lopez’s ability to link up play and create chances will be crucial in unlocking Benfica’s defense. His fluidity in movement and tactical intelligence make him a versatile option for Flick, and he will be looking to make an impact on the game.
Attacking Midfield: Gavi
With Dani Olmo ruled out due to a muscle injury picked up against Getafe, Gavi will likely retain his place in the number ten role. The Spanish midfielder has been a key player for Barcelona, contributing with both goals and assists. Gavi’s energy, creativity, and technical ability make him the ideal candidate to replace Olmo in the starting lineup.
Gavi will look to orchestrate Barcelona’s attacks, linking up with the forwards and providing the necessary service to Lewandowski and others in the final third. His versatility also means he can adapt to different positions and contribute to defensive duties when needed.
Left Midfield: Ferran Torres
Ferran Torres has been in excellent form for Barcelona, offering an alternative to the in-form Raphinha. The versatile forward has been used in various attacking roles, but his recent performances off the bench, including scoring twice in the win over Borussia Dortmund, have cemented his place in the squad. Torres will likely start on the left wing against Benfica, where his pace and dribbling will be crucial in stretching the opposition.
Torres’s work rate and ability to cut inside and create goal-scoring opportunities make him a valuable asset, and he will look to continue his good form in this crucial European fixture.
Striker: Robert Lewandowski
Robert Lewandowski has been Barcelona’s focal point in attack this season, and the Polish international remains their most important goal-scoring threat. Lewandowski has already netted seven times in the Champions League this season, leading the team’s scoring charts in the competition. Despite the need for some rotations, Lewandowski is unlikely to be rested, given his crucial role in the team.
Lewandowski’s movement, finishing ability, and leadership will be key as Barcelona looks to secure all three points in Lisbon and maintain their strong position in the Champions League.
Conclusion
Barcelona’s predicted lineup against Benfica shows a mix of key players who will be looking to maintain their form in Europe while also giving some fringe players valuable minutes. With their place in the knockout rounds already almost secured, Hansi Flick will be keen to rotate his squad while keeping the team competitive. The match presents an opportunity for Barcelona to continue their dominance in the Champions League and finish the group stage on a high.
