Benfica vs Brentford Predictions

Benfica vs Brentford for this pre-season friendly tie. Benfica and Brentford aim to remain unbeaten in pre-season, meeting at Estadio da Luz on Thursday evening. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips

Club Friendlies | Jul 25, 2024 at 8pm UK at Estadio Universitario de Lisboa

Benfica vs Brentford Predictions

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Can Brentford Halt Benfica’s Scoring Streak at Estadio da Luz?

As the pre-season preparations continue, Benfica and Brentford will clash at the Estadio da Luz. Both teams are looking to maintain their unbeaten records, with Benfica fresh from a 3-1 victory over Almeria and Brentford having thrashed AFC Wimbledon 5-2. This encounter promises to be a captivating affair, offering a deeper look into each team’s form and strategies ahead of their respective domestic campaigns.

Team Form and Analysis

Benfica’s Pre-Season Form

Benfica have showcased their offensive prowess throughout pre-season, scoring freely across their matches. They commenced with a dominant 5-0 win over Farense, followed by a 2-2 draw with Celta Vigo, and most recently, a 3-1 triumph against Almeria. Despite conceding early to Almeria, the Portuguese side displayed resilience, with goals from Vangelis Pavlidis, Arthur Cabral, and Joao Mario ensuring victory. This goal-scoring consistency highlights Benfica’s attacking depth and versatility.

However, their defensive line has shown occasional lapses, which could be a concern against more formidable opposition. With key players like Nicolas Otamendi and Leo Kokubo still absent due to international duties, and others like Antonio Silva and Joao Neves on post-tournament breaks, the defence may be vulnerable. Nonetheless, Benfica’s attacking talent seems more than capable of compensating for any defensive frailties.

Brentford's Pre-Season Form

Brentford's pre-season has been equally impressive, characterised by a high-scoring win against AFC Wimbledon. Despite conceding an early goal, Brentford bounced back with a debut brace from Igor Thiago, along with goals from Yoane Wissa, Kevin Schade, and Bryan Mbeumo. This attacking display highlights the depth in Brentford's forward line, even in the absence of key players like Ivan Toney.

Defensively, Brentford have room for improvement, as evident from their early concession against Wimbledon. With several regulars like Christian Norgaard, Mathias Jensen, and Rico Henry still unavailable, the team’s backline lacks its usual solidity. The absence of first-choice goalkeeper Mark Flekken also raises concerns, though Ethan Pinnock’s return is a positive.

Tactical Insights and Expected Lineups

Benfica's Tactical Approach

Roger Schmidt's Benfica are likely to adopt an aggressive, possession-based style, emphasising quick transitions and wide play. The expected lineup includes Anatoliy Trubin in goal; Aursnes, Araujo, Morato, and Fernandez forming the back four; with Luis and Barreiro anchoring the midfield. The attacking trio of Neres, Mario, and Gouveia will support Pavlidis up front.

This setup provides balance, allowing Benfica to exploit Brentford’s defensive gaps while maintaining control in midfield. The attacking trio's mobility and creativity will be pivotal in breaking down Brentford’s defence, with Pavlidis poised to capitalise on any opportunities.

Brentford's Tactical Approach

Thomas Frank's Brentford are expected to deploy a counter-attacking strategy, relying on their pace and directness. Valdimarsson is likely to start in goal, with Roerslev, Pinnock, Collins, and Stevens in defence. Onyeka, Janelt, and Peart-Harris will form a robust midfield, while Mbeumo, Thiago, and Wissa lead the attack.

This formation allows Brentford to absorb pressure and strike on the counter, utilising the speed and finishing ability of Mbeumo and Thiago. However, the absence of key midfielders and defenders may hinder their ability to maintain defensive solidity and control possession.

Key Areas and Player Duels

Decisive Areas of the Field

The match is likely to be decided in the midfield, where Benfica's ball control and Brentford's counter-pressing will clash. Benfica's midfield duo of Luis and Barreiro will need to dominate possession and disrupt Brentford's transitions. Conversely, Brentford's midfield must be vigilant in intercepting passes and launching quick counters.

Key Player Duels

1. Pavlidis vs. Pinnock: Pavlidis’ movement and finishing will test Pinnock’s defensive capabilities. This duel could be crucial in determining Benfica's success in front of goal.
2. Mario vs. Janelt: Joao Mario’s creativity and vision will clash with Janelt’s defensive acumen. Winning this battle could enable Benfica to unlock Brentford’s defence.
3. Mbeumo vs. Aursnes: Mbeumo’s pace and dribbling will challenge Aursnes, making this a key matchup on the flank.

Expected Gameplay Dynamics

The game is expected to feature high-intensity play, with Benfica dominating possession and Brentford relying on swift counter-attacks. Benfica's focus will be on exploiting wide areas and creating overloads, while Brentford will aim to disrupt their rhythm and strike quickly through their forwards.

Managerial Analysis and Critique

Roger Schmidt (Benfica)

Roger Schmidt’s approach is characterised by aggressive pressing and quick transitions, which has yielded positive results in pre-season. However, his defensive setup has shown vulnerabilities, especially against swift counter-attacks. Schmidt’s insistence on a high defensive line could be a double-edged sword against Brentford's pacey forwards.

Thomas Frank (Brentford)

Thomas Frank’s tactical flexibility and focus on structured counter-attacks have been effective. However, his side's defensive organisation remains a concern, particularly with the absence of key players. Frank’s reliance on a high-risk, high-reward strategy may leave Brentford exposed against technically superior teams like Benfica.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Benfica

Strengths:

• Attacking Depth: Multiple goal scorers and creative players.
• Possession Play: High ball retention and control.

Weaknesses:

• Defensive Vulnerabilities: Inconsistent defensive performances.
• Absences: Missing key defenders and midfielders.

Brentford

Strengths:

• Counter-Attack: Effective and rapid transitions.
• Forward Depth: Multiple attacking options.

Weaknesses:

• Defensive Solidity: Prone to conceding early goals.
• Goalkeeping Concerns: Lack of a first-choice keeper.

Predictions

Best Bet: Benfica to Win

Given their attacking form and home advantage, Benfica are well-placed to secure a victory against a Brentford side missing several key players. Benfica's offensive depth and possession-based approach will likely overwhelm Brentford’s weakened defence.

Correct Score Prediction: Benfica 3-1 Brentford

Considering both teams' attacking capabilities and defensive frailties, a high-scoring affair seems likely. Benfica’s superior offensive unit should net multiple goals, while Brentford's counter-attacking threat will ensure they get on the scoresheet.

Goalscorer Prediction: Vangelis Pavlidis

Pavlidis has been in fine form during pre-season and will be crucial in leading Benfica’s attack. His positioning and finishing make him a prime candidate to score against Brentford’s compromised defence.

First Half Result: Benfica to Lead

With their aggressive start and home support, Benfica are expected to take control early in the match. Brentford’s defensive uncertainties further reinforce the likelihood of Benfica leading at half-time.

Innovative Market: Total Team Shots on Goal - Benfica Over 10

Benfica’s attacking dominance is reflected in their high number of shots per game. Given Brentford's defensive issues, Benfica are likely to register over 10 shots on goal, applying constant pressure throughout the match.

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