Marseille vs Benfica predictions ahead of this affair in the Europa League. Marseille is struggling, having lost five consecutive matches, indicating a significant dip in team confidence and lack of inspiration. Read on for our free betting tips and predictions.
Europa League | Quarter-Finals | 2nd Leg – Apr 18, 2024 at 8pm UK at Orange Vélodrome
Marseille vs Benfica Predictions
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Strategic Showdown: Marseille and Benfica Vie for Semi-final Berth
Key Stats
– Marseille have a four-game winning streak at home in the Europa League.
– Benfica averages 2.2 goals per game this season, showcasing their attacking prowess.
– Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has scored in five of Marseille’s last seven European games.
As the Europa League progresses, the clash between Marseille and Benfica at the Orange Vélodrome is shaping up to be a pivotal encounter. Despite their contrasting form, both teams bring unique strengths and challenges to the pitch, influenced significantly by their recent performances and tactical setups.
Team Dynamics and Tactical Setups
Marseille’s Resilience at Home
Marseille have shown a robust character at the Velodrome, marking four consecutive home victories in the Europa League. This resilience is critical as they look to overturn a 2-1 deficit from the first leg. Their ability to perform under pressure at home could be a deciding factor, leveraging their strong offensive record in this competition.
Benfica’s Consistency and Threat
Benfica, on the other hand, have been formidable in Liga Portugal Betclic, reflecting a well-organised and potent attacking side. They have scored consistently, with an average of 2.2 goals per game, showcasing their ability to capitalise on chances, particularly through dynamic players like Ángel Di María and Rafa Silva.
Key Player Duels
The match could be significantly influenced by key player matchups. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang for Marseille, with his impressive goal-scoring form in Europe, will likely be pitted against Benfica’s defensive stalwart Nicolás Otamendi. The battle between Aubameyang’s attacking flair and Otamendi’s experienced defending could be crucial.
On the midfield front, Valentin Rongier’s ability to control the pace and distribute effectively will be vital against Benfica’s Orkun Kökçü, whose prowess in midfield control and transition play has been outstanding.
Strategic Implications and Expected Gameplay
Marseille’s Approach
Given their need to overcome a deficit, Marseille are expected to adopt an aggressive attacking strategy, likely focusing on high pressing and quick transitions. Their ability to create and convert big chances, averaging 2.5 big chances per game, will be essential.
Benfica’s Tactical Response
Benfica, tactically versatile and solid, may opt for a slightly conservative approach, focusing on maintaining structure and exploiting counter-attack opportunities. Their higher ball possession statistic (59.6% vs. Marseille’s 53.6%) may allow them to control the game’s tempo, managing Marseille’s aggressive pushes effectively.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Marseille’s Challenges
Marseille’s recent form presents a psychological barrier, with five consecutive defeats exposing vulnerabilities, particularly in maintaining match-endurance and defensive solidity. Their error-prone defence could be a critical weakness that Benfica might exploit.
Benfica’s Robustness and Potential Pitfalls
Benfica’s strengths lie in their consistent goal scoring and solid midfield setup. However, their occasionally high foul rate and the potential over-reliance on key players like Di María for breakthroughs could be areas of concern if Marseille manages to neutralise these threats effectively.
Opinionated Managerial Insight
Marseille’s coach might face criticism for the team’s current form and lack of tactical flexibility during their losing streak. A more dynamic approach and better utilisation of the squad’s depth could be pivotal for turning their fortunes around in critical European matches.
Predicted Lineups and Impact
Marseille (4-3-3): Lopez; Mbemba, Gigot, Balerdi, Murillo; Henrique, Veretout, Kondogbia; Harit, Moumbagna, Aubameyang.
This lineup suggests a balanced approach with a strong focus on attack, particularly through the wings, where Harit and Aubameyang could be crucial.
Benfica (4-2-3-1): Trubin; Bah, Silva, Otamendi, Aursnes; Neves, Luis; Di Maria, Silva, Neres; Tengstedt.
Benfica’s setup is designed to solidify midfield control while allowing freedom for their attacking midfielders to support Tengstedt up front.
Game Predictions and Rationale
Best Bet: Marseille to Win
Given Marseille’s strong home record and the high stakes, it is predicted they will channel their robust home form to secure a victory. Their aggressive approach and need to overturn the deficit might just edge them past Benfica.
Correct Score Prediction: Marseille 3-1 Benfica
Aligned with the best bet, Marseille’s need for a clear win and Benfica’s vulnerability away could see a high-scoring affair, with Marseille likely pushing hard to secure a decisive result.
Goalscorer Prediction: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to Score
Aubameyang’s form, especially in European competitions, makes him the prime candidate to find the net. His consistent scoring in crucial matches supports this prediction.
Corner Prediction: Total Corners Over 10
Both teams have demonstrated a tendency to win corners through their attacking plays, with Marseille averaging 5.4 and Benfica 7.3 per game. This could lead to a high number of corners as both sides push for goals.
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