At the Estádio da Luz on 5 November 2025, Benfica host Bayer Leverkusen in a crucial Champions League fixture where both sides urgently need points to revive their group-stage campaigns.
Pick: Over 2.5 Goals
The selection is Over 2.5 goals, supported by both teams’ attacking profiles and defensive frailties. Each side has been involved in high-scoring matches throughout the group stage, and both are compelled to push forward to stay in contention for qualification.
Benfica: Searching for European Redemption
Domestically dominant yet struggling in Europe, Benfica’s contrast in form is striking. They’ve lost all three group matches so far, conceding seven goals and scoring only twice, but their attack remains potent when playing in Lisbon - averaging over 2.5 goals per home game across all competitions. Roger Schmidt’s side tend to play expansively at home, which may yield more scoring chances but also leaves spaces at the back, a risk against Leverkusen’s quick attackers.
Bayer Leverkusen: Attack-Minded but Unstable
Leverkusen have showcased their offensive firepower but lack balance. Despite a heavy 7–3 aggregate goals record across recent Champions League outings, Xabi Alonso’s men remain committed to their forward-pressing, quick-transition style. Players like Wirtz and Boniface can exploit Benfica’s defensive gaps, yet the German side’s own backline has proven vulnerable, conceding in each of their group matches so far.
