Benfica vs Qarabag prediction, H2H and probable lineups, 16.09.2025

The highly anticipated UEFA Europa League clash between Benfica and Qarabag is set for September 16, 2025. Both teams enter the fixture aiming for a strong start in the group stage. This article provides an in-depth Benfica vs Qarabag prediction, including heads-to-head analysis, probable lineups, and key betting tips to inform your wagers.

Benfica vs Qarabag: Current Form and Context

Benfica approaches this match with a solid domestic record, showing impressive form in the Portuguese Primeira Liga. Their attacking prowess and home advantage make them the favorites. Qarabag, meanwhile, has demonstrated resilience in the Azerbaijan Premier League but faces a challenging task against the well-organized Portuguese side.

Head-to-Head Analysis (H2H)

• Benfica and Qarabag have met twice before in European competition.

• Benfica leads the H2H with 2 wins and no losses.

• Previous matches saw Benfica dominate possession and create more scoring chances.

• Qarabag’s compact defense was tested heavily in those encounters.

This historical data favors Benfica but does not discount the possibility of a resilient Qarabag defensive performance.

Probable Lineups and Key Players

Benfica Starting XI (Projected)

• Goalkeeper: Odysseas Vlachodimos

• Defense: Gilberto, Nicolás Otamendi, Morato, Alejandro Grimaldo

• Midfield: Enzo Fernández, Pizzi, João Mário

• Attack: Gonçalo Ramos, Rafa Silva, David Neres

Key Player: Gonçalo Ramos remains a constant threat up front with his clinical finishing.

Qarabag Starting XI (Expected)

• Goalkeeper: Shakhruddin Magomedaliyev

• Defense: Maksim Medvedev, Rahid Amirguliyev, Mikheil Ergemlidze, Pedro Henrique

• Midfield: Mahir Madatov, Abdullahi Sharif, Nicat Qurbanov

• Attack: Qara Qarayev, Ismayil Ibrahimli, Owusu Kwabena

Key Player: Mahir Madatov’s creativity is vital in unlocking Benfica’s defense.

Betting Tips and Predictions

• Prediction: Benfica to win with a likely scoreline of 2-0.

• Benfica’s superior home record and attacking quality suggest they will control the game.

• Over 1.5 goals is a solid betting option given Benfica’s firepower.

• Consider Benfica to keep a clean sheet as Qarabag’s offense might struggle here.

Conclusion

With their strong H2H record and home advantage, Benfica is poised to start their Europa League campaign with a confident victory over Qarabag. This Benfica vs Qarabag prediction recommends backing the Portuguese giants to dominate both possession and scoring opportunities while keeping Qarabag at bay.

Stay tuned for the latest lineup confirmations and any injury updates before kickoff.