Sport Lisboa e Benfica vs. Fenerbahçe Spor Kulübü Prediction on August 27, 2025

Match info

Looking at the names of the 2 teams, whose match prediction we’re about to break down, one would think it’s, at least, the face-off within the League phase of the UEFA Champions League. But it isn’t. Sport Lisboa e Benfica vs. Fenerbahçe Spor Kulübü will play the 2nd leg of the last qualifying round, the Play-off round, of the 2025–26 campaign for the most prestigious men’s football club tournament, following the match in Istanbul, Turkey, which ended in a 0-0 draw.

These 2 will meet on Wednesday, August 27, at 8 p.m. WEST (Western European Summer Time, local time) at Estádio da Luz, officially named Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica, in Lisbon, Portugal. Benfica is the overwhelming favorite to win the match according to the odds of football online betting sites, too big a one if you ask us.

Meeting statistics

Current form & playstyle: Sport Lisboa e Benfica

Under Bruno Lage, “The Eagles” (As Águias) have hit the ground running this season domestically, winning both their league matches and scoring 4 goals — a mark of excellent form. On the continental stage, they’ve steamed through the Third qualifying round with a 4–0 aggregate win over Nice.

Tactically, Benfica are known for their weaponized counterattacking and high-intensity pressing. They frequently absorb pressure and then transition sharply, capitalizing on their organized defensive shape and quick attacking transitions. Key performers include Tomás Araújo, a reliable defender adept at building from the back and central to Lage’s setup, and Evángelos Pavlidis, who has recently surged in form with crucial goals and even won Player and Forward of the Month honors.

Current form & playstyle: Fenerbahçe Spor Kulübü

“The Yellow Canaries” (Sarı Kanaryalar) currently hold an average league form with 1 win and 1 draw so far (no defeats), but they’re unbeaten away from home — a promising sign of resilience. Their Champions League road has been tough but resilient — advancing with a gritty 0–0 draw in Istanbul in the first leg against Benfica. Notably, Benfica played the last 20+ minutes with a red card.

Managed by José Mourinho, Fenerbahçe have leaned heavily on pragmatism and counterattacks. The Portuguese expert has adapted to the Turkish football environment by prioritizing strategic setups against more dominant teams — a notable shift from their traditional “Brazil of Turkey” style toward a more rigid, structured approach.

Head-to-head

The 1st leg on August 20, 2025, in Istanbul, which ended 0–0, was a tight, controlled affair where Benfica showcased defensive discipline despite going down to 10 men. As for the historical context, Benfica have maintained a strong record in UEFA competitions overall and have remained unbeaten against Turkish opposition in competitive European ties, including their previous 4 wins over Fenerbahçe, one of which was 7-0 (in 1975). Fenerbahçe won twice, while 2 matches saw a draw.

Match analytics

Expect a tense, strategic duel defined by Benfica’s dynamic transitions versus Fenerbahçe’s disciplined containment. Key factors: Benfica’s pressing and swift counters could break the deadlock, especially playing at home. Fenerbahçe’s resilience and Mourinho’s pragmatism could keep things locked or-low scoring. It will likely be a tight, tactical battle, with a low number of goals.

Tip: Total – Under 2.5 at 2.02 odds on weiss.bet.