The stage is set for a captivating European encounter as Portuguese giants Benfica prepare to host German challengers Bayer Leverkusen at the iconic Estádio da Luz in Lisbon. On Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 8:00 PM UTC, these two sides will clash in a match brimming with intriguing narratives and significant stakes. With both clubs vying for crucial points in their respective European campaigns, this fixture promises tactical battles, individual brilliance, and potentially a pivotal moment in their season. Will Benfica leverage their home advantage under a relatively new managerial regime, or can Bayer Leverkusen overcome recent defensive woes to secure a vital away victory? The answers will unfold on the hallowed turf of the Estádio da Luz.
Head-to-Head History
The historical rivalry between Benfica and Bayer Leverkusen, while not extensive, has produced some tightly contested matches. Both teams have met four times in competitive fixtures, with a remarkably even record.
- Total Matches Played: 4
- Benfica Wins: 2
- Bayer Leverkusen Wins: 1
- Draws: 1
- Goals Scored (Benfica): 4
- Goals Scored (Bayer Leverkusen): 4
Recent Results:
The last four encounters between the two clubs have been:
- December 9, 2014: Benfica 0 – 0 Bayer Leverkusen
- October 1, 2014: Bayer Leverkusen 3 – 1 Benfica
- February 21, 2013: Benfica 2 – 1 Bayer Leverkusen
- February 14, 2013: Bayer Leverkusen 0 – 1 Benfica
Notably, Bayer Leverkusen’s largest victory against Benfica was a 3-1 home win in 2014. The matches have often been low-scoring affairs, with 50% featuring over 1.5 goals and an equal percentage seeing both teams find the net.
Current Form & Team News (Predicted for November 5, 2025)
As we approach this critical fixture, both teams arrive with contrasting recent fortunes and potential squad considerations.
Benfica:
Under the guidance of manager José Mourinho, who reportedly took the reins in September, Benfica has reportedly experienced a mixed bag of results. While their domestic form has been robust, reportedly boasting a ten-game unbeaten run (7 wins, 3 draws), their European campaign has seemingly struggled, with three consecutive losses in the Champions League. At home, however, the Eagles have reportedly maintained a strong record, going four games unbeaten (3 wins, 1 draw) since a previous Champions League defeat. Tactical adjustments by Mourinho to address their European struggles will be closely watched. There is no specific information available regarding injuries or suspensions, but a focus on shoring up their European performances will be paramount.
Bayer Leverkusen:
Bayer Leverkusen’s recent form appears more concerning, especially on the defensive front. Their European journey reportedly saw draws against PSV and Copenhagen, followed by a “confidence-shattering 7-2 defeat” to PSG. Domestically, a recent 3-0 loss to Bayern Munich further highlighted defensive frailties. Under manager Kasper Hjulmand, Leverkusen have reportedly kept only one clean sheet in their last five matches across all competitions (3 wins, 2 losses). A significant concern for Leverkusen is their disciplinary record, with three red cards reportedly issued in their last four games across all competitions. This could lead to key suspensions, forcing Hjulmand into tactical reshuffles. Their “leaky defence” and a tendency to concede at least twice in their last four Champions League away games (1 draw, 3 losses) will be a major area of focus.
Tactical Preview
This match is likely to be a fascinating tactical battle between Benfica’s experienced leadership and Leverkusen’s attacking ambition, albeit with defensive vulnerabilities.
Benfica, under Mourinho, are likely to employ a disciplined and tactically astute approach. We can anticipate a formation that prioritizes defensive solidity, possibly a 4-2-3-1 or a 4-3-3, designed to absorb pressure and hit on the counter-attack. Given their strong home form domestically, they will aim to control the midfield, disrupt Leverkusen’s passing lanes, and exploit any spaces left by the German side’s attacking forays. Their ability to transition quickly from defense to attack will be crucial.
Bayer Leverkusen, despite their defensive issues, are known for their attacking flair and high-intensity press. They will likely opt for an attacking formation such as a 4-3-3 or a 3-4-3, seeking to dominate possession and create chances through wide play and quick combinations. The midfield battle will be pivotal; if Leverkusen can assert dominance there, they could dictate the tempo. However, their defensive weaknesses, particularly in away European games and recent tendencies for red cards, could be exploited by Benfica’s clinical finishing. Travel fatigue might play a minor role for Leverkusen, though top European teams are usually well-equipped to handle such demands.
