Gil Vicente will face off against Benfica at the Estádio Cidade de Barcelos in a highly anticipated Primeira Liga clash on March 28, 2025. The hosts, currently languishing in 14th place, have been struggling for form, failing to secure a victory in their last eight games. Meanwhile, Benfica, sitting in second place with 59 points, are riding high on a six-match winning streak and will be eager to close the gap on league leaders Sporting CP.
Gil Vicente's recent performances have been disheartening, with the team suffering a 1-0 defeat to Santa Clara just before the international break. This loss marked their seventh defeat in eight matches across all competitions, leaving them with a mere two goals scored in that span while conceding 11. The Galos have not only struggled offensively but also defensively, as they have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last nine matches.
In stark contrast, Benfica has been in formidable form. The Águias have won their last six league matches, with their most recent victory being a thrilling 3-2 away win against Rio Ave. In that match, Orkun Kökçü opened the scoring in the first half, followed by goals from Vangelis Pavlidis and Kerem Aktürkoğlu after the break. This victory has solidified their position as one of the top teams in the league, boasting the second-best goal tally and the best defensive record, having conceded only 20 goals in 26 games.
The head-to-head record between these two teams heavily favors Benfica, who have claimed victory in their last five encounters with Gil Vicente. The last time the Galos managed to defeat Benfica was back in February 2022, when they won 2-1. In fact, out of 52 meetings in all competitions, Benfica has won 39 times, while Gil Vicente has only managed to secure six victories, with seven matches ending in draws.
As the teams prepare for this crucial match, Gil Vicente will be without key players, including Yaya Sithole, who is a long-term absentee, and Jesús Castillo, who will miss out due to international duty. The team has seen a drop in morale, especially with their recent home performances, where they have lost their last three matches in the Primeira Liga and failed to score in the last two.
On the other hand, Benfica will be looking to maintain their momentum. Despite some injury concerns, including Tiago Gouveia, Alexander Bah, and Manu Silva, the visitors are expected to field a strong lineup. Ángel Di María and Tomás Araújo face late fitness tests, while Nicolás Otamendi and Andreas Schjelderup returned late from international duty, adding to the uncertainty surrounding their availability.
Given the current form of both teams, predictions are leaning heavily in favor of Benfica. Analysts are backing a comfortable 3-0 victory for the visitors, as they have demonstrated their ability to dominate weaker opponents. With Gil Vicente's defensive struggles and lack of offensive output, the odds appear stacked against them.
In terms of betting, several tips have emerged for this matchup. The odds for over 2.5 goals are set at 1.82 with 1xbet, while Benfica to score first is pegged at 1.33 with the same bookmaker. These figures reflect the general consensus that Benfica will find the back of the net early and often, given their attacking prowess and Gil Vicente's defensive frailties.
As the match approaches, fans will be eager to see if Gil Vicente can turn their fortunes around or if Benfica will continue their impressive run and put further distance between themselves and the chasing pack. With both teams having much to play for, this encounter promises to be an exciting spectacle.
In summary, the stage is set for an intriguing battle between struggling Gil Vicente and a rampant Benfica side. The stakes are high, and as the teams take to the field, all eyes will be on whether the hosts can defy the odds or if the visitors will assert their dominance once more.
