Benfica vs Bayer Leverkusen Preview & Predictions – Can Mourinho’s Men Finally Bounce Back?

Benfica vs Bayer Leverkusen Match Preview

The Champions League continues with an intriguing showdown between Benfica and Bayer Leverkusen at Estádio da Luz. The Portuguese giants are still hunting for their first points in the group stage, while Leverkusen are desperate to turn their mixed European form into something more convincing.

It’s been a rough ride for Benfica so far. After a shocking 3–2 home loss to Qarabag that led to Jose Mourinho’s arrival, things haven’t exactly improved in Europe. Defeats to Chelsea and Newcastle (1–0 and 3–0 respectively) have kept them rooted to the bottom of the group. But Mourinho’s men have found some rhythm domestically with three straight clean-sheet wins in the league — giving fans at least a flicker of hope.

Leverkusen, on the other hand, come into this one with a far more balanced record. They’ve won four, drawn one, and lost two of their last seven matches across all competitions. In Europe, they managed draws against Copenhagen and PSV before being completely undone 7–2 by PSG. Still, the German side’s attacking power can’t be ignored.

---

Use of Statistics & Team Form

Benfica’s European numbers tell a painful story — zero points and a defense that’s been leaking goals too easily. Their attack hasn’t clicked either, scoring only once in the last three Champions League games. Mourinho’s arrival was supposed to tighten things up, but it’s clear there’s still a gap between Benfica’s domestic level and what’s needed in Europe.

Leverkusen have been solid if inconsistent. Xabi Alonso’s side have shown what they can do when their front line is firing, but they’ve also been vulnerable at the back, conceding in most of their recent games. Their ability to score freely, however, gives them the edge here.

---

Expert Tipsters Insight

Top betting analysts are slightly leaning toward the visitors. Benfica’s European struggles make it hard to justify backing them, even at home. The smart play might be Leverkusen “Draw No Bet”, giving a bit of insurance if Mourinho’s men finally manage to grind out a draw.

Leverkusen’s recent record, particularly away from home, suggests they have the firepower to hurt Benfica. Their attacking creativity and pace on the counter could be key.

---

Head-to-Head Record

These two sides haven’t met often in recent years, but history leans slightly towards Benfica when playing at home. However, with Leverkusen’s current form and Benfica’s European slump, the tables might just turn this time.

Leverkusen’s forward line — combined with their speed in transition — could expose Benfica’s defensive frailties, something that’s been a recurring theme this season.

---

Wide Betting Market Coverage

For those diving into the betting markets, there’s plenty to explore. Aside from the Draw No Bet market, both teams to score (BTTS) looks like a solid option, considering neither defense has been watertight.

Here’s a quick look at some popular markets:

---

No Fixed Matches – Genuine Tips Only

Let’s be clear — there are no fixed matches here. Predictions are based on stats, team form, and expert analysis. Football can always surprise us, and that’s what makes it exciting. Anyone promising “guaranteed wins” isn’t playing fair.

At 100percentsurewins.com, we focus on real insights, data-driven analysis, and honest tips.

---

Team News & Line-Ups

Benfica: Mourinho is still finding his best eleven. Key man Ángel Di María is expected to return, offering a much-needed creative spark. The defensive line remains a concern, though, with a few players struggling for consistency.

Bayer Leverkusen: Patrick Schick is tipped to make his comeback and could lead the attack. Meanwhile, Alex Grimaldo, the ex-Benfica player, has been in electric form — 7 goals and 4 assists in 13 games. Expect him to be heavily involved, especially on set pieces.

---

Prediction

Benfica might fight hard, but Leverkusen’s quality and momentum could prove too much. Mourinho will surely set his side up to be compact, but their lack of cutting edge in Europe might cost them again.

Predicted Score: Benfica 1–2 Bayer Leverkusen

A narrow away win seems the most likely outcome, with Leverkusen’s creativity and attacking movement making the difference.

---

Players to Watch

Alex Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen): The spotlight will be on him as he returns to Lisbon. His attacking instincts and ability to deliver from wide areas make him one of Leverkusen’s biggest threats.

Ángel Di María (Benfica): The veteran winger still has the magic to unlock defenses. If Benfica are to pull off a result, he’ll be at the heart of it.

Patrick Schick (Bayer Leverkusen): If he starts, his finishing and physical presence could trouble Benfica’s backline all night.

---

Betting Tips & Angle

• Main Tip: Leverkusen Draw No Bet

• Alternative Bet: Over 2.5 Goals

• Value Bet: Alex Grimaldo to Score Anytime

• Risky Bet: Benfica to Score First but Lose

Confidence in Mourinho’s men getting something out of this clash is low, but if you like a value flutter, backing an early Benfica goal followed by a Leverkusen comeback could be worth a look.

---

Wrap-Up

This game feels like a make-or-break for Benfica’s European hopes. Mourinho needs a result, but the visitors might just have too much quality going forward. With Grimaldo’s story adding an extra twist, it’s shaping up to be an entertaining battle at Estádio da Luz.

Final Call: Leverkusen to win (Draw No Bet). Expect goals, drama, and a few fireworks from Grimaldo against his old team.