Benfica is set to host Estoril Praia at the Estadio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica on December 24, 2024, with both teams possessing vastly different motivations for this Primeira Liga clash.
The Eagles, managed by Bruno Lage, are currently embroiled in the tight title race of the Liga Portugal. They sit just one point behind league leaders Sporting, following Sporting's recent draw against Gil Vicente. A victory against Estoril would propel Benfica to the top of the league standings, reaching 38 points, and provide them with significant momentum as they enter the second half of the season.
Meanwhile, Estoril Praia finds itself struggling near the relegation zone. With only 14 points to their name, the Canaries are hovering just above the drop zone and need to secure points to avoid being dragged down. Their last encounter resulted in a disappointing 2-0 loss to Casa Pia, highlighting their need for immediate improvement.
Benfica's form heading to this fixture is solid, with their latest result being a 2-0 victory against Nacional, thanks to two goals from veteran forward Ángel Di María. The 36-year-old Argentine returned to Benfica after successful stints with several top clubs, and his experience will be pivotal as the Eagles aim for the top of the table.
On the other hand, Estoril’s recent performances reveal inconsistency. The team has won just once in their last five league matches and is yet to secure any point away from home this season. Estoril's coach, Rui Borges, will be under pressure to devise strategies to combat Benfica’s high-pressing game and create goal-scoring opportunities.
One of the standout players for Estoril is Hélder Costa, who has shown flashes of brilliance since joining the club. Costa's ability to navigate between the lines and deliver precise passes will be instrumental if Estoril hopes to upset Benfica.
The historical head-to-head record between these two teams heavily favors Benfica, who have won 51 of the 68 encounters. Notably, Estoril hasn't tasted victory against Benfica since 1977, and the trend appears unlikely to change as the former champions are on home turf.
The betting odds are reflecting Benfica’s dominance; they are listed at 1/12 to win, with predictions indicating they can secure the match with a scoreline as heavy as 3-0. With their impressive attacking lineup and solid defense, they are expected to control the match from start to finish.
For this fixture, Benfica will be missing key players including Renato Sanches and Tiago Gouveia due to injury. Estoril, too, has its share of absentees, with Pedro Amaral and Xeka unable to contribute. Despite these setbacks, both teams will prioritize securing all three points.
Betting analysts suggest key insights for punters: expect Benfica to dominate possession with under 2.5 goals likely, considering Estoril's defensive struggles. The match will showcase Benfica's attacking flair versus Estoril's resilience as they aim to escape relegation fears.
Bruno Lage expressed confidence before the match, saying, "We expect them to play with a five-man defense, but aggressive, always with the aim of provoking the opponent. The team is motivated for this Christmas present, with good performance and goals." His sentiments capture the essence of Benfica’s aspirations to close the year strongly.
Kickoff is set for 12:15 AM IST, and football fans can follow the action through various streaming platforms. With the stakes high for both clubs, this matchup promises to be both thrilling and pivotal as they navigate the nuances of the Portuguese league.
Whether Benfica can continue their unbeaten streak against Estoril remains to be seen. Fans will be eagerly awaiting what could be another chapter added to the storied rivalry.
