Benfica and Bayer Leverkusen face off in a compelling European showdown at Estádio da Luz, with kick-off set for 20:00 on 5 November 2025.
Both sides arrive desperate to reverse poor early-season fortunes, but Benfica’s collective creativity and Leverkusen’s defensive fragility make for a fascinating tactical battle. With both teams still seeking their first win in the group, this fixture may prove decisive for their continental ambitions.
Best Bets & Predictions
Based on recent performances and statistical trends, here are our top betting recommendations for this match. We’re particularly confident in backing Benfica to win, given their creative edge and Leverkusen’s worrying defensive record.
| Our Prediction | Odds & Bookmaker | Confidence | Why We’re Backing It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Benfica to Win | 21/20 @ Bet365 (48.8%) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Backing because Benfica create far more chances and Leverkusen concede over 3 goals per game. |
| Both Teams To Score – Yes | 4/7 @ Bet365 (63.6%) | ⭐⭐⭐ | Value here due to both sides’ leaky defences and attacking intent. |
Odds correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.
- Bet £10 get £30
- Excellent Football Betting Options
- Extensive Bet-Builder
- Multi-Award Winning Bookmaker
New customers can sign up using bonus code SQUAWKA365, bet £10 and get £30 in Free Bets. Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of bets to value of qualifying deposit. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply. Registration Required. This code is for marketing and tracking purposes only. #Ad.
- Fantastic Promotions
- Fun Social Media Content
- New Bookmaker
#AD 18+ New customers only. Bet £10+ in a single real-money bet within 7 days of registration to receive £10 in Free Bets credited within 24 hours of qualifying bet settlement. Free Bets Boosts expire 7 days after credit. Stake not returned. Promotional Terms Apply. 18+. Gambleaware.org
- Enhanced Offers
- Request A Bet Feature
- Vast selection of sports markets
#AD 18+ New customers only. £5 minimum deposit. Place a £10 qualifying bet on any market. Odds of 1/1 or greater. 1 x £5 bet token. Free bet stakes not included in returns. Free bets are non-withdrawable. 30 day free bet expiry. Eligibility restrictions. Further T&Cs apply.
Season Form & Standings
Neither side has managed a win so far, but Leverkusen have at least picked up two points from draws. Benfica, despite their creative output, have lost all three group games and urgently need a result to revive their campaign.
| Team | Pos | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bayer Leverkusen | 30 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 5 | 10 | -5 | 2 |
| Benfica | 35 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 2 | 7 | -5 | 0 |
Potential Match-Winners
Benfica’s threat is collective, but Vangelis Pavlidis stands out as the likely danger man up front, with a strong record for getting into dangerous positions (team-high touches in the box and a leading shot tally). Andreas Schjelderup and Bruma provide dribbling thrust and creative spark, underpinning Benfica’s remarkable 72 key passes in just seven games—over 10 per match. For Leverkusen, Patrik Schick is always a threat if he starts, but creative support has been limited so far. Martin Terrier is another forward to watch, especially if Leverkusen chase the game. Neither side has a player among the competition’s top three for goals or assists, reflecting a more collective approach.
Head-to-Head
Last 4 Meetings
Benfica and Bayer Leverkusen have met four times in history, although all four of those encounters came more than 10 years ago. Benfica have the slight edge but the last meeting between the two ended in a 0-0 draw.
| Date | Score | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| 09/12/14 | Benfica 0-0 Bayer Leverkusen | Champions League |
| 01/10/14 | Bayer Leverkusen 3-1 Benfica | Champions League |
| 21/02/13 | Benfica 2-1 Bayer Leverkusen | Europa League |
| 14/02/13 | Bayer Leverkusen 0-1 Benfica | Europa League |
Conclusion
Will Benfica finally convert their creative dominance into points against a Leverkusen side leaking goals? With the hosts’ key attacking metrics and Leverkusen’s defensive record, there’s clear value backing Benfica to win at 21/20 @ Bet365 (48.8%).
Odds correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.