Match Overview
On December 12, 2023, Red Bull Salzburg will face off against Benfica at the Red Bull Arena in a UEFA Champions League Group D match. The odds for this match are in favor of Benfica with a slight advantage. It promises to be an exciting clash between two competitive teams.
Historical Face-Off
These two teams have met once before in the UEFA Champions League group stage on September 20, 2023. In that encounter, Red Bull Salzburg emerged victorious with a 2-0 win over Benfica. This was their inaugural clash, and it set the stage for an intriguing rivalry between these sides.
Local Team’s Recent Form
Red Bull Salzburg has been performing well in recent matches across various competitions. They have won three out of their last six matches, losing just one and drawing two. Their goal-scoring form has been decent, with five goals scored and only three conceded during this period.
In terms of their performance in the UEFA Champions League group stage, Red Bull Salzburg currently sits in third place in Group D with four points from five matches played. They have won one match, drawn one, and lost three so far. Their goal difference stands at -2.
In their most recent league fixture against Rapid Vienna on December 9th, Red Bull Salzburg secured a narrow 1-0 victory thanks to Kamil Piątkowski’s early goal in the 19th minute.
Away Team’s Recent Form
Benfica has had mixed results recently, especially when playing away from home. In their last six matches across all competitions, they have won two games while losing one and drawing three. The team has scored nine goals but also conceded eight during this period.
In the UEFA Champions League group stage, Benfica currently finds themselves in last place in Group D with just one point from five matches. They are yet to secure a victory in the competition, drawing one match and losing four. Their goal difference stands at -6.
In their most recent league fixture against Farense on December 8th, Benfica could only manage a 1-1 draw despite dominating possession for large parts of the game.
Key Players Spotlight
For Red Bull Salzburg, Karim Konaté has been in excellent form recently. The attacker has scored ten goals and provided two assists in his last 24 appearances across all competitions. His ability to find the back of the net will be crucial for Red Bull Salzburg’s chances against Benfica.
On the other hand, Rafa has been a standout player for Benfica. The midfielder has contributed six goals and four assists in his last 20 matches, showcasing his importance to the team’s attacking play. His creativity and goal-scoring threat will be vital for Benfica’s hopes of getting a positive result.
Statistical Insights
Looking at recent results and performances, both teams have struggled defensively. Red Bull Salzburg has conceded five goals while scoring three in their five Champions League group stage matches so far. Similarly, Benfica has conceded ten goals while only managing to score four during this period.
It is also worth noting that both teams have had difficulties securing victories in recent away matches. Red Bull Salzburg is yet to win an away game in the Champions League group stage this season, while Benfica has struggled with just one point from two away matches.
Match Prediction: Red Bull Salzburg 2-1 Benfica
Based on current form and statistics analysis, it is predicted that Red Bull Salzburg will come out on top with a narrow victory over Benfica. The final scoreline is expected to be Red Bull Salzburg 2-1 Benfica. However, given the competitiveness of both teams, this match could easily go either way.
Overall, this match promises to be an exciting encounter between two talented teams vying for a spot in the next stage of the UEFA Champions League.
