Benfica vs Chelsea Prediction - FIFA Club World Cup

The second round of 16 clash at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup sees Portuguese giants Benfica take on Premier League powerhouse Chelsea in Match No. 50 of the tournament. Scheduled for Saturday at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, this all-European showdown promises high-stakes drama as both sides battle for a place in the quarter-finals, where the winner will face either Palmeiras or Botafogo on July 4.

Head-to-Head and History

Chelsea have won all three previous meetings with Benfica, including a memorable 2-1 triumph in the 2013 UEFA Europa League final. Each of those victories came by a single-goal margin, underlining how competitive this clash has historically been.

Benfica’s overall record against English teams is less favorable, with 21 losses from 40 matches (winning 11). However, confidence is high in the Portuguese camp after stunning the Bundesliga champions, and they will look to break their duck against the Blues this weekend.

Benfica – Momentum and Belief After Topping Group C

Making their debut at the Club World Cup, Benfica have exceeded expectations by topping Group C with seven points, ahead of tournament heavyweights Bayern Munich. The Portuguese side began their campaign with a 2-2 draw against Boca Juniors before thrashing Auckland City 6-0 and edging out Bayern 1-0 in a gritty, hard-fought contest in Charlotte.

Andreas Schjelderup’s early strike and a superb display by goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin sealed that historic win against the German champions, despite extreme heat and a demanding schedule. Head coach Bruno Lage believes his side are still being underestimated and has called on fans to “believe more in the work we are doing.”

Benfica’s form has turned around dramatically in this tournament, with back-to-back wins by a combined 7-0 scoreline, putting an end to their four-match winless streak prior to the World Cup. With Angel Di Maria contributing three goals – all from the penalty spot – and Vangelis Pavlidis continuing his prolific form, the Eagles are confident of causing another upset on the big stage.

Benfica remain without Alexander Bah and Manu Silva, while defensive midfielder Florentino Luis is sidelined with a shoulder injury. Andrea Belotti returns from suspension and could feature, but Greek forward Vangelis Pavlidis is expected to lead the line again. Veteran Di Maria, Schjelderup, and young Argentine talent Gianluca Prestianni should form the attacking trio behind the striker.

Chelsea – Premier League Class with Fresh Legs

Chelsea, meanwhile, recovered well from a 3-1 setback against Flamengo to finish second in Group D. Manager Enzo Maresca made eight changes for their final group-stage game against Espérance Tunis and was rewarded with a composed 3-0 victory in Philadelphia, highlighted by goals from Tosin Adarabioyo, new signing Liam Delap, and youngster Tyrique George.

With depth and rotation providing a fresh physical edge, the West Londoners are targeting their second Club World Cup title after previously lifting the trophy in 2021 following a 2-1 extra-time success over Palmeiras – one of the potential quarter-final opponents in 2025. Chelsea have earned over £28 million already in the tournament and could rake in close to £100 million should they go all the way.

Maresca has praised Benfica as “a top club, with a top manager and top players,” and emphasized the need for a top performance. The Blues will be wary of underestimating their opponents, particularly after Benfica’s resilient win over Bayern Munich, but Chelsea’s 11 wins in 15 games against Portuguese opposition – including three previous victories over Benfica – suggest they have history and pedigree on their side.

Chelsea are still missing Wesley Fofana and Nicolas Jackson, the latter serving the second game of his suspension. Liam Delap is likely to continue up front after scoring his first goal for the club, with Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto pushing for starts in attack. In midfield, Enzo Fernandez is expected to face his former club alongside Moises Caicedo, while Reece James, Tosin Adarabioyo, Levi Colwill, and Marc Cucurella could form the back line.

Possible Starting XIs of Benfica and Chelsea

Benfica: Anatoliy Trubin – Fredrik Aursnes, Antonio Silva, Nicolás Otamendi, Álvaro Carreras – Leandro Barreiro, Renato Sanches – Angel Di María, Gianluca Prestianni, Andreas Schjelderup – Vangelis Pavlidis. (4-2-3-1)

Chelsea: Robert Sánchez – Reece James, Tosin Adarabioyo, Levi Colwill, Marc Cucurella – Moisés Caicedo, Enzo Fernández – Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke – Liam Delap. (4-2-3-1)

Benfica vs Chelsea Betting Prediction

Based on the latest odds from EveryGame, The Blues are +105 favorites, while Benfica sit at +265, and the draw is priced at +240.

Given Chelsea’s depth, recent improvements, and historical edge over Benfica, we’re backing the Premier League side to edge a hard-fought victory in Charlotte. However, this won’t be a walk in the park. Benfica have shown composure, belief, and tactical discipline in this tournament, and their attacking quality should not be underestimated.

Chelsea to win looks a smart play, as history suggests a tight encounter, and both sides come in with confidence and attacking threats.

Benfica vs Chelsea Best Bet: Chelsea to Win +105 at EveryGame for 6/10 Units