Prediction: Benfica vs Ajax

Prediction: Benfica to win 2-1

Best Odds: 12/1

Bookmaker: Betfair

Benfica and Ajax will face each other in the Champions League this week. The first leg of the Round of 16 tie will be held at Estádio da Luz in Lisbon and is scheduled to kick off at 8pm UK time on Wednesday.

Benfica

Benfica will be looking to progress to the quarter-finals of the Champions League, and they will feel confident of winning the tie against Ajax. Even though the first leg is at home, there is no away goals rule in the competition this season.

The Portuguese giants will head into the match against Ajax on the back of a 2-2 draw with Boavista away from home in the Portuguese league. It followed a 2-1 win against Santa Clare at home in the league.

Team News:

Darwin Nunez is set to start for Benfica.

Ajax

Just like Benfica, Ajax will be pleased to be playing in this tie instead of a match against a better opposition. Ajax will feel confident of winning the tie against Benfica. Even though the first leg is at home, there is no away goals rule in the competition this season.

Ajax will head into the match against Benfica on the back of a 1-0 win against Willem II away from home in the Eredivisie. It followed a 5-0 hammering of FC Twente in the league.

Team News:

Ryan Gravenberch is likely to start for Ajax.

Key Factors to Consider

• Benfica have won 2 of their 6 Champions League games this season.
• Ajax have won all 6 of their Champions League games this season.
• Benfica have won 3 of their last 6 competitive matches.
• Ajax have won all of their last 6 competitive matches.

Conclusion

Benfica are at home, and that will count for something. The Portuguese giants should eke out a narrow win.

Prediction: Benfica to win 2-1

Best Odds: 12/1

Bookmaker: Betfair