Benfica vs. Barcelona: UEFA Champions League Round of 16 Match Preview

Barcelona and Benfica, who recently competed in the league stage, are set to face off once more in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16. Their first leg match is scheduled for Wednesday. In their previous encounter in late January, Barcelona emerged victorious in a 5-4 thriller that included five goals after the 63rd minute. Both teams are seasoned participants in the Champions League. Barcelona boasts five Champions League titles, while Benfica has secured two titles themselves.

The Benfica vs. Barcelona match is scheduled to commence at 3 p.m. ET at Estádio da Luz in Lisbon, Portugal. Current betting odds favor Barcelona at -120 on the 90-minute money line, making them the favorites. Benfica is listed as the underdog at +280, and a draw is priced at +310. The over/under for total goals in the match is set at 3.5.

How to Watch Barcelona vs. Benfica

• Match: Benfica vs. Barcelona
• Date: Wednesday, March 5
• Time: 3 p.m. ET
• Live stream: Paramount+ (with a 7-day free trial for new users)

Expert Analysis of the Match

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CBS Sports Golazo Network delivers extensive coverage of global soccer. Check it out on CBSSports.com, the CBS Sports app for connected TV devices, the CBS Sports mobile app, Pluto TV, or Paramount+.

UEFA Champions League Match Prediction

Ahead of Wednesday’s game, consider the Champions League predictions from SportsLine soccer expert Martin Green. Green, a seasoned sports betting industry professional and writer, has a strong track record in soccer picks. His profitable picks last year included Euro qualifying (+6.30 units), the EFL Cup (+4.47), the FA Cup (+3.07), and the Champions League (+3.05).

For the Benfica vs. Barcelona match, Green is recommending a Barcelona win at -115 odds. Barcelona’s current form is impressive, with a 15-match unbeaten streak in 2025. They have secured victories in 12 of these matches, with nine wins being by a margin of multiple goals. Under coach Hansi Flick, Barcelona has demonstrated both high-scoring capabilities, netting four or more goals in nine games during this streak, and defensive solidity, with seven clean sheets in 2025.

Barcelona’s squad features experienced players like 36-year-old Robert Lewandowski, La Liga’s top scorer, and emerging talent such as 17-year-old Lamine Yamal, who leads the league in assists. Benfica, on the other hand, will be without several key players, including their second-highest scorer, Angel Di Maria. Additionally, Benfica’s home form in the UCL has been weak, with no wins in their last four home games. Considering these factors, Green anticipates Barcelona overcoming an understrength Benfica team.

Green stated to SportsLine, “Hansi Flick’s team has already secured the Spanish Super Cup this season and is also in the Copa del Rey semi-finals. They possess a wealth of attacking talent, including Lewandowski, Raphinha, Dani Olmo, Pedri, and the highly talented Lamine Yamal. This explains their recent goal-scoring form.”

How to Watch Champions League Live on Paramount+

Now that you have insights into the game, get ready to watch the UEFA Champions League. Visit Paramount+ to stream UEFA Champions League, Italian Serie A, live local CBS sports events, top global soccer matches, and much more. New subscribers can enjoy a 7-day free trial. You can also access comprehensive soccer coverage on the CBS Sports Golazo Network.

Where to Bet on UEFA Champions League Games

Here are a few sportsbooks offering bets on today’s Champions League games, along with their current UEFA Champions League sportsbook promotions: