The UEFA Champions League group stage format kicks off with Benfica facing Qarabag next Tuesday at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon.
The Eagles come into this game in fine recent form, having won their first two league games but failing to make it three in a row following a 1-1 draw against Santa Clara in the Liga Portugal.
On the other hand, the Horsemen’s recent form has not been impressive, with just two wins in their last five games in all competitions. They failed to build on their win before the international break and were held to a 1-1 draw by Zira in the Azerbaijan Premier League.
Read our Benfica vs Qarabag predictions and preview to find out, but remember to also check our other UEFA Champions League predictions.
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Benfica vs Qarabag prediction: The Eagles to get easy win
Key statistics
- Benfica have gone into the break ahead in three of their last five games this season.
- The Eagles have been unbeaten in their last five games in all competitions.
- Over 5.5 cards have been seen in four of Benfica’s last five games.
Correct score prediction: Benfica 3-0 Qarabag
This Champions League clash should be an easy win for Benfica and we are predicting a 3–0 victory for the Portuguese giants. While both sides are capable of creating chances in attack, the Eagles’ greater experience at this level and their strong home advantage should make the difference.
They have an impressive record on their own ground and will be eager to open their campaign with a statement performance. Benfica look well-equipped to control the match and secure a comfortable win.
Pre-match odds and win probability: Bookmakers give Benfica favourable odds
- Home: 1/5 (1.20) – 83.3%
- Draw: 11/2 (6.50) – 15.4%
- Away: 12/1 (13.00) – 7.1%
*Odds provided by Ladbrokes. Subject to change.*
The betting odds give a clear picture of what is expected in this match. The Reds are seen as overwhelming favourites, with an 83.3% chance of winning, which reflects their strength, experience and home advantage.
A draw is valued at 15.4%, showing it is possible but not very likely. The Glorious One, on the other hand, are big underdogs with only a 7.1% chance, meaning they would need a major upset to get a result against a much stronger Benfica side.
Make sure to check the odds at different bookmakers and learn all about the advantages of using our Coral promo code.
Most recent head-to-head: No previous record
There is no recent head-to-head data for Benfica and Qarabag in competitive matches. This will be the first time the two teams have faced each other in the Champions League. However, Bruno Lage’s team's form heading into this game puts them as favourites to win their first game in the UCL.
After reviewing our key Benfica vs Qarabag predictions, be sure to visit our website for the remaining football betting tips today.
Benfica preview: Injury worries in the squad
Benfica will be without a few key players for this match. Defender Alexander Bah is expected to be out until late October with a knee injury. Midfielder Manu Silva also has a cruciate ligament injury that will keep him sidelined for several weeks.
Winger Bruma is recovering from an Achilles tendon injury and is expected to return in mid-October. Additionally, there are reports that midfielder Nuno Felix is out with a knee injury.
Predicted lineup: Soares (GK), Otamendi, Dedic, Araujo, Dahl, Barreiro, Aursnes, Barrenechea, Rios, Schjelderup & Ivanovic
Last five fixtures
- 12.09.25 – Benfica 1 – 1 Santa Clara
- 31.08.25 – Alverca 1 – 2 Benfica
- 27.08.25 – Benfica 1 – 0 Fenerbahce
- 23.08.25 – Benfica 3 – 0 Tondela
- 20.08.25 – Fenerbahce 0 – 0 Benfica
Qarabag preview: No Injury concerns
Gurban Gurbanov’s side has a relatively healthy squad heading into this fixture. The team has been performing well recently and has no major injuries to report.
This means the manager will be able to field a full-strength side, which is a significant advantage as they look to cause an upset against a stronger opponent.
Predicted lineup: Kochalski (GK), Mustafazade, Silva, Ceferquliyev, Medina, Bicalho, Jankovic, Kady, Andrade, Zoubir & Axundzade
Last five fixtures
- 12.09.25 – Qarabag 1 – 1 Zira
- 31.08.25 – Karvan 0 – 2 Qarabag
- 27.08.25 – Qarabag 2 – 3 Ferencvaros
- 22.08.25 – Qarabag 0 – 1 Sumqayit
- 19.08.25 – Ferencvaros 1 – 3 Qarabag
Player to watch: Andreas Schjelderup
One player who stands out in this match is Andreas Schjelderup from Benfica. The young winger has made a very strong start to the season and has quickly become an important part of the team’s attack.
In his last five appearances, he has scored three goals and provided two assists, showing that he can both create opportunities for his teammates and finish chances himself. Qarabag’s defence will have to stay very focused and disciplined, because Schjelderup has the quality to change the game on his own.