Prediction: Benfica vs PSV

Prediction: Match to end in 1-1 draw

Best Odds: 5/1

Bookmaker: Betfair

Benfica and PSV will face each other in the Champions League playoff first-leg tie this week. The match will be held at Estadio do SL Benfica in Lisbon and is scheduled to kick off at 8pm UK time on Wednesday.

Benfica

Benfica did not feature in the Champions League group stage last season and will be determined to qualify for Europe’s premier club competition this time around. Jorge Jesus’s side finished third in the Primeira Liga last season and will be keen on winning the championship this campaign.

The Eagles will head into the match against PSV on the back of a 2-0 victory over Arouca at home. It followed a 2-0 victory over Spartak Moscow in the Champions League qualifier.

Team News:

Former Tottenham Hotspur central defender Jan Vertonghen has a thigh injury and will miss the match. Darwin Nunes, Haris Seferovic and Ferro are out as well.

PSV

Like Benfica, PSV did not play in the Champions League proper last season. The Dutch giants will be determined to put that right this time around and will be keen on at least scoring an away goal on Wednesday evening.

Roger Schmidt’s side will head into the match against Benfica on the back of a 2-0 victory over Heracles away from home in the Eredivisie. PSV had won 1-0 against Midtjylland in the Champions League qualifier last week.

Team News:

Chukwunonso Tristan Madueke and Yorbe Vertessen are likely to start for PSV.

Key Factors to Consider

• Benfica have won their last two Champions League qualifying games.
• PSV have won their last four Champions League qualifying games.
• Benfica have won their last four competitive matches.
• PSV have won their last six competitive matches.

Conclusion

Benfica and PSV are two strong sides. The match will be very competitive, and it could end in a draw.

Prediction: Match to end in 1-1 draw

Best Odds: 5/1

Bookmaker: Betfair