Benfica and Estoril Praia are set to clash in the Liga Portugal on December 23, 2024, at 15:45 (Brasília time) at the iconic Estádio da Luz, Lisbon. This highly anticipated match marks the 15th round of the current league season and presents contrasting objectives for each team.
Benfica currently sits third in the league standings with 35 points, just two behind the rivals Sporting and Porto. The team is eager to capture the top position with a victory, especially considering their impressive form recently. Under the management of Bruno Lage, Benfica enters this game after a solid 2-0 triumph over Nacional, with star player Ángel Di María shining brightly by scoring two of the goals. The team boasts eight unbeaten matches with six wins and two draws, demonstrating significant momentum as they approach this fixture.
On the other hand, Estoril Praia finds itself precariously positioned at 12th place with only 14 points, merely two points above the relegation zone. Their recent performances have not been encouraging, as they have failed to win any of their last two outings, falling to Casa Pia and managing only draws against Braga. The need to secure points desperately weighs on the Estoril squad, particularly as they have yet to win away this season, compounding their challenges.
Historically, Benfica has held the upper hand against Estoril, with the two teams meeting 74 times; Benfica has won 55 of those encounters, with Estoril managing only five victories. This streak includes their last two clashes during the previous season, both won by Benfica—1-0 away and 3-1 at home. Their dominant head-to-head record adds pressure on the Estoril team, which hopes to break this trend.
The tactical approach from both teams will play a significant role. Benfica, having only allowed eight goals this season, boasts the league's best defense, making it difficult for opposing teams to penetrate. Their ability to score is equally impressive, with 34 goals netted so far. The lineup for Benfica will include players like Trubin, Otamendi, and Di María, who is expected to be the focal point of their attack. Di María’s exceptional skills and ability to create chances makes him one to watch, with betting odds of 2.30 for him to score at any time during the match, as noted on Superbet.
Estoril's lineup will likely include Robles, Holsgrove, and Marques as key players. Coach Ian Cathro emphasized the necessity of closing gaps defensively and the importance of counterattacks. The Estoril defense has shown vulnerabilities, being the fifth weakest attack this season, and they will need all hands on deck to secure even a draw against Benfica.
The referee for the encounter will be Manuel Oliveira, supported by his assistants. The match will also be broadcast live on ESPN4 and the Disney+ streaming service, allowing fans to follow these two teams' struggles closely.
With both teams having distinct motivations—Benfica seeking to rise to the top of the competition, and Estoril fighting to distance themselves from relegation danger—the showdown at Estádio da Luz promises to be fiercely contested. Experts are predicting Benfica as the clear favorite, yet Estoril’s determination to secure points could make for a riveting battle. Join the excitement and witness this pivotal match!
