Benfica Aims to Advance Against Monaco in Champions League Clash

Lisbon, Portugal – The Champions League matchup between Benfica and AS Monaco kicks off tonight at 21:00 CET at Estádio da Luz. Benfica enters the game with a slight advantage after winning the first leg 1-0 at the Stade Louis II last week.

The stakes are high as Benfica seeks to secure a spot in the Round of 16, while Monaco is determined to overturn the deficit.

Benfica’s squad shows few changes from the first leg, with starting lineup featuring goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin and a solid defense that includes Nicolás Otamendi and António Silva. The offensive setup highlights star player Vangelis Pavlidis, who scored the decisive goal in the first match and has netted eight goals in his last five games across all competitions.

“Pavlidis has been in exceptional form, and he’s definitely the player to watch tonight,” said a Benfica official before the match.

Monaco, meanwhile, has made adjustments to their roster, bringing in defenders Ismail Jakobs and Singo, who returns from injury. New signing Kévin Volland aims to bolster their attacking options. Starting for the visitors are goalkeeper Jakub Majecki and forward Breel Embolo, who poses a significant threat to Benfica’s defense.

“We need to win by at least two goals to progress, and we have nothing to lose,” said Monaco coach Adi Hütter, instilling confidence in his players after a recent 7-1 thrashing of Nantes in Ligue 1.

The atmosphere is charged as fans fill the stands at Estádio da Luz, hoping for an exhilarating night of European football. This match not only represents a chance for Benfica to solidify their lead but also an opportunity for Monaco to stage a comeback against a formidable opponent.

In other news, the referee for the match is Glenn Nyberg, who is expected to maintain a firm grip on the contest.

Total attendance is anticipated to be around 65,000 spectators. With both teams aiming for success, fans can expect an intense battle on the field. All eyes will undoubtedly be on Pavlidis and Embolo as they look to change the narrative of this knockout round.

The stage is set for a night of high stakes and excitement in Lisbon, as the outcome of this match will determine who will advance in the prestigious Champions League.