Betway Predictions

Santa Clara vs Benfica: Liga Portugal 2025 Match Preview and Prediction

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On February 15, 2025, CD Santa Clara will welcome SL Benfica to the Estádio de São Miguel in Ponta Delgada for an exciting clash in the Liga Portugal. With the match set to kick off at 19:00, fans are eager to see how this battle will unfold. As one of the most anticipated fixtures of the weekend, we break down everything you need to know, from team form to predictions and betting tips.

Team Overview

Santa Clara: Currently sitting in 5th place with 38 points, Santa Clara has been in solid form, particularly on their home turf. With a record of seven wins from their last eleven matches at the Estádio de São Miguel, the Azoreans will be hoping to challenge the reigning giants, Benfica. Santa Clara’s attacking play has been impressive, with key players such as Ricardinho making crucial contributions. The team comes into this match off the back of a 2-1 victory over AVS Futebol, and they will look to extend their good run in front of their home crowd.

Benfica: In contrast, Benfica enters this fixture in superb form, sitting comfortably in 2nd place with 47 points. The Lisbon giants have shown great consistency in their recent performances, and their attacking prowess has been a major factor in their success. Benfica has been dominant in their recent head-to-head encounters with Santa Clara, winning all six of their last meetings. Their form on the road is also strong, and they will be aiming for another victory to close the gap at the top of the table. With a potent attacking lineup, including players like Darwin Núñez and Gonçalo Ramos, Benfica will be the favorites heading into this clash.

Head-to-Head Record

Benfica has enjoyed a perfect record in their last six meetings with Santa Clara. The Lisbon side has won every single one of those encounters, making them heavy favorites going into this match. The most recent victory came in the 2024/25 season, with Benfica securing a dominant 4-0 win at home. Santa Clara will need to overcome their historical struggles against Benfica if they are to pull off an upset.

Key Players to Watch

Santa Clara:

  • Ricardinho: The Brazilian forward has been a standout performer for Santa Clara, playing a pivotal role in their recent success. His attacking flair and ability to score crucial goals make him one of the players to watch.
  • Aderllan Santos: The experienced defender has been central to Santa Clara’s defensive solidity. He will need to be at his best to contain Benfica’s attacking stars.

Benfica:

  • Darwin Núñez: One of the most dangerous forwards in Liga Portugal, Núñez has been in scintillating form this season. His speed, power, and clinical finishing make him a constant threat.
  • Gonçalo Ramos: The young striker has continued to impress with his intelligent movement and goal-scoring ability. He is expected to play a key role in Benfica’s attacking play.

Predicted Lineups

Santa Clara (4-3-3):

  • Goalkeeper: Marco Pereira
  • Defenders: Ricardinho, Aderllan Santos, João Afonso, João Lucas
  • Midfielders: Fábio Cardoso, João Pedro, Zé Manuel
  • Forwards: Ricardo Gomes, João Silva, João Pedro

Benfica (4-4-2):

  • Goalkeeper: Odisseas Vlachodimos
  • Defenders: Andreas Samaris, Nicolás Otamendi, Jan Vertonghen, Alejandro Grimaldo
  • Midfielders: Pizzi, Julian Weigl, Rafa Silva, Everton Cebolinha
  • Forwards: Darwin Núñez, Gonçalo Ramos

Betting Tips

Match Outcome:

  • Benfica is the strong favorite for this match, with odds of around 1.70 for an away win. Santa Clara’s recent form at home will give them some hope, but their historical struggles against Benfica make a victory for the visitors more likely.

Both Teams to Score:

  • Given Santa Clara’s decent attacking form and Benfica’s potent offense, betting on both teams to score could be a worthwhile option. Expecting goals at both ends seems reasonable, with odds typically around 1.90.

Over/Under 2.5 Goals:

  • With both teams capable of finding the back of the net, a bet on over 2.5 goals is appealing. This game could see plenty of action in front of goal, especially with Benfica’s attacking depth and Santa Clara’s ability to score at home.

Match Prediction:

Given Benfica’s superior form and dominance over Santa Clara in recent years, they are expected to come out on top in this encounter. However, Santa Clara will not make it easy, especially with the backing of their passionate home support.

Final Score Prediction: Santa Clara 1-3 Benfica

Benfica’s attacking strength and historical record against Santa Clara should see them secure all three points, but Santa Clara is likely to grab a consolation goal as they look to take advantage of any defensive lapses.

Please remember that football is unpredictable, and these predictions are based on current form and available statistics. Always gamble responsibly.