Barcelona and Benfica Clash Again in the Champions League: Trident Aims for 70 Goals as Di María Misses Out

In a rare twist of fate, Barcelona and Benfica meet for the second time in just 43 days, as they battle for a place in the Champions League quarter-finals. The first encounter, a thrilling 5-4 Barcelona victory, was an instant classic, filled with twists, comebacks, and late drama. Now, on March 6 at 4:00 AM Beijing time, the two sides collide once more at the Estádio da Luz, with Barcelona’s attacking trident looking to build on their devastating form, while Benfica will have to cope without their talisman, Ángel Di María.

Barcelona’s Dominance in Head-to-Head Battles

Over the years, Barcelona and Benfica have faced off 10 times in the Champions League, with the Catalan giants holding the upper hand:

• 4 wins, 4 draws, and 2 defeats in favor of Barcelona
• Barcelona’s last trip to Lisbon ended in a breathtaking 5-4 victory
• Benfica’s last win over Barcelona came in September 2021 (3-0 at home)

Their most recent encounter, a seven-goal spectacle in January, showcased both teams' attacking prowess but also highlighted defensive vulnerabilities. On that night, Barcelona trailed 1-3 and 2-4 before launching a stunning comeback, sealing a dramatic victory in stoppage time. Benfica will now look for revenge on their home turf, while Barcelona hopes to repeat their offensive brilliance and take a significant step toward the quarter-finals.

Benfica Without Their Angel

Benfica’s hopes of overcoming Barcelona have been dealt a major blow with the absence of Ángel Di María. The Argentine World Cup winner has been the Portuguese side’s most influential playmaker, but he suffered a left thigh muscle injury during the Champions League playoff round against AS Monaco. He is officially ruled out for this crucial clash.

Di María’s absence could prove devastating for Benfica, as he has been their creative spark, set-piece specialist, and one of their most experienced European performers. In addition to Di María, Benfica will also be without Bah, Manu Silva, and Florentino, leaving them with limited options in midfield and attack.

On the other hand, Barcelona arrives with a nearly full-strength squad, missing only Andreas Christensen. With their key players fit and firing, the Blaugrana are in a strong position to take advantage of Benfica’s weakened lineup.

Barcelona’s Three-Headed Monster: Chasing 70 Goals

Benfica coach Bruno Lage has promised an attacking showdown, and if that’s the case, Barcelona is ready to embrace the challenge. Their front three—Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Lamine Yamal—have been unstoppable this season, combining for 69 goals across all competitions.

• Robert Lewandowski (36 years old):
  • Champions League: 8 games, 9 goals
  • All competitions: 37 games, 34 goals
• Raphinha (27 years old):
  • Champions League: 8 games, 8 goals, 4 assists
  • All competitions: 39 games, 24 goals, 18 assists
• Lamine Yamal (16 years old):
  • Champions League: 7 games, 2 goals, 2 assists
  • All competitions: 35 games, 11 goals, 16 assists

Together, they have formed one of the deadliest attacking trios in Europe, driving Barcelona’s 12-game unbeaten streak in 2025 and keeping them atop La Liga with 57 points from 26 matches.

If Benfica wants to stand a chance, their defense, led by Nicolás Otamendi and Antonio Silva, must find a way to contain the relentless firepower of Lewandowski and company.

Lewandowski: The Eternal Nightmare for Benfica

If there’s one player Benfica dreads facing, it’s Robert Lewandowski. The Polish striker has been a relentless tormentor throughout his career, boasting an incredible record against Benfica:

• 7 matches played
• 6 wins, 1 draw, 9 goals, 1 assist
• Scored in all of his last 5 Champions League games vs. Benfica
• Has a hat-trick and two braces against them

From his dominant days at Bayern Munich to his recent success with Barcelona, Lewandowski has consistently punished Benfica’s defense. Now, at 36, he remains as lethal as ever and will be eager to add to his already impressive tally.

With Otamendi likely tasked with marking him, the battle between the veteran Argentine and the Polish goal machine will be a key subplot in this high-stakes encounter.

Benfica’s Last Hope: Fortress at Estádio da Luz

Despite their injury woes and underdog status, Benfica has a powerful weapon of their own—their home stadium. Estádio da Luz has been a fortress in European competition, and their fans create one of the most intimidating atmospheres in the Champions League.

• Benfica has lost just 2 of their last 14 home Champions League matches
• They have beaten European giants like Juventus, PSG, and Barcelona at home in recent years
• The crowd will be electric, pushing them to defy the odds

If Benfica can channel the energy of their home support and strike first, they could put Barcelona under real pressure. However, if they allow Barcelona’s trident to settle into their rhythm, the floodgates could open once again.

Expected Lineups

Benfica (4-3-3):

• GK: Anatoliy Trubin
• DF: Tomás Araújo, Antonio Silva, Nicolás Otamendi, Juan Bernat
• MF: João Neves, Orkun Kökçü, Fredrik Aursnes
• FW: Casper Tengstedt, Rafa Silva, Petar Musa

Barcelona (4-3-3):

• GK: Wojciech Szczęsny
• DF: Jules Koundé, Ronald Araújo, Íñigo Martínez, Alejandro Balde
• MF: Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Dani Olmo
• FW: Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha

A European Night of Drama Awaits

With Barcelona’s deadly attack, Benfica’s home advantage, and the high-stakes nature of the knockout rounds, this promises to be another unforgettable Champions League clash.

For Barcelona, this is an opportunity to take control of the tie and continue their resurgence under Xavi. For Benfica, it’s a chance to prove their resilience and defy the odds without Di María.

One thing is certain—when these two sides meet, fireworks are guaranteed.