Benfica keep flying. Rui Vitoria’s team could have scored even in the Allianz Arena but did not and now they have to do it in Da Luz to have a chance to qualify. They are on top of the Portuguese Primeira Liga, 2 points ahead of Sporting Lisbon. The leaders had a hard fought 2-1 victory away to Academica.
Attacking duo Mitroglou and Jonas is… singled out tonight since the Brazilian is suspended. This will make it harder to trouble to the German defense.
Gaitan is a major doubt.
Possible lineup
Benfica: Ederson; André Almeida, Lindelöf, Jardel, Eliseu; Fejsa, Renato Sanches, Gaitán (Carcela-González), Pizzi; Raúl Jiménez, Mitroglou.
Out: Júlio César (thigh), Jonas (suspended), Lisandro López (back)
Doubtful: Nicolas Gaitán (thigh)
Misses next match if booked: Luisão, Jonas, Gonçalo Guedes, Pizzi
Bayern managed a thrilling qualification against Juventus. They now have to make it simpler in Portugal and this can happen by scoring first.
Guardiola’s men extended their lead in the Bundesliga after winning 1-3 in Stuttgart. Dortmund is now 7 points behind.
The Bavarians have come through the serious problem in central defense with Boateng, Badstuber injured and Benatia on and off. Left full-back Alaba and central midfielder Kimmich have now had a few games paired in the center of the defence and the trick works nicely. The trouble might come in the semi-finals.
Robben is also sidelined for the visitors.
Possible lineup
Bayern: Neuer; Lahm, Kimmich (Martínez), Alaba, Bernat; Vidal, Thiago; Costa, Ribéry; Müller, Lewandowski.
Out: Boateng (groin), Badstuber (ankle), Robben (groin), Benatia (groin)
Doubtful: Coman (thigh)
Misses next match if booked: Bernat, Boateng, Kimmich, Lewandowski, Vidal
Our bet: The odds on the Germans is a joke. As it was on the first leg. But we expect Bayern to score and prove the bookmakers right. Benfica’s absentees are too much to handle.
