Marseille vs Benfica Preview, Prediction and Betting Tips
Marseille vs Benfica Preview
- Tournament – UEFA Europa League Quarter-finals 2nd leg
- Date – Thursday, April 18
- Kick-off Time – 07:00 pm GMT
- Venue – Stade Velodrome, Marseille, France
In the upcoming second-leg clash between Marseille and Benfica, Marseille faces the daunting task of overturning their first-leg defeat against Benfica. Marseille hasn’t been successful in turning around a first-leg loss in European competition since the 2017-18 season, and they’ll be under immense pressure to change that narrative this time around.
On the other hand, Benfica is eyeing a historic breakthrough, aiming for their first European semi-final appearance since the 2013-14 Europa League campaign. Despite their recent struggles away against French clubs, Benfica will be eager to capitalize on their first-leg advantage and secure a spot in the semi-finals.
Marseille holds a decent record against Portuguese opponents at home, winning four of their last five encounters. However, they suffered a setback against Benfica in their previous meeting in France.
Benfica, despite their winless streak away against French sides, will be determined to defy the odds and clinch victory on Marseille’s turf. Their previous success against Bordeaux in 2013 serves as a reminder of their potential to upset Marseille.
With Marseille’s formidable home record in the Europa League and Benfica’s aspirations for European glory, the stage is set for an enthralling encounter where both sides will battle fiercely for a spot in the semi-finals.
Marseille vs Benfica Team News
Marseille Team News
Marseille will once again be without the services of Michael Murillo, Bilal Nadir, Valentin Rongier, and Pedro Ruiz due to injury. While the possibility of changes exists, Iliman Ndiaye and Azzedine Ounahi are the frontrunners to step into the starting lineup. However, given the team’s ample rest period, manager Jean-Louis Gasset is unlikely to tinker too much with the lineup.
Benfica Team News
On the other side, Benfica is missing Juan Bernat due to a long-term injury, but otherwise, they boast a fully fit squad. With the XI that secured victory in the first leg performing well, there may be little reason for significant changes in their lineup.
Marseille vs Benfica: Predicted Lineups
Marseille’s possible starting lineup:
Lopez; Mbemba, Gigot, Balerdi, Merlin; Kondogbia, Veretout, Harit; Ndiaye, Moumbagna, Aubameyang
Benfica possible starting lineup:
Trubin; Bah, A. Silva, Otamendi, Aursnes; Neves, Luis; R. Silva; Neres, Cabral, Di Maria
Marseille vs Benfica Head-to-Head
In their European encounters, Marseille and Benfica have met five times in knockout stages, including their recent clash in the first leg of the 2023-24 Europa League Quarter-finals.
Benfica holds the upper hand, having knocked Marseille out of European competition in their previous two encounters. With Benfica currently holding an advantage in the tie, they are poised to continue their dominance over Marseille unless the French side can stage a remarkable comeback.
Let’s have a look at the Last 5 Fixtures between these 2 sides:
- Benfica 2-1 Marseille – Europa League Quarter-finals 1st leg – April 11, 2024
- Benfica 1-1 Marseille – Europa League Round of 16 first leg – March 11, 2010
- Marseille 1-2 Benfica – Europa League Round of 16 second leg – March 18, 2010
- Marseille 2-1 Benfica – European Cup semi-finals first leg – April 4, 1990
- Benfica 1-0 Marseille – European Cup semi-finals second leg – April 19, 1990
Marseille vs Benfica Prediction
Considering Marseille’s recent poor form with five consecutive losses, including the first-leg defeat against Benfica, their chances seem bleak. However, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s goal-scoring form offers a glimmer of hope for the French side.
Despite Marseille’s struggles, they have maintained a strong record at home, winning four of their last games on their home turf.
On the other hand, Benfica arrives in relatively decent form, with three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five matches. Their away form has been inconsistent, with two wins and three losses in their last five away games.
Given the unpredictability of both teams, this match is difficult to predict. However, considering Marseille’s home advantage and Benfica’s slightly better overall performance, a draw seems likely. Expect goals from both sides, with Marseille holding Benfica to a 2-2 draw.
Predicted Score: Marseille 2-2 Benfica
Marseille vs Benfica Betting Tips (subject to change)
Marseille win – 2.45
Benfica win – 2.82
Draw – 3.48
Odds Source: BetOnline
Where to Watch Marseille vs Benfica
India – Sony Ten Network, SonyLiv
UK – TNT Sports
US – CBS Sports Network, Paramount+
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