Benfica 0-1 Bayer 04 Leverkusen: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Bwin’s post-match review of Benfica 0-1 Bayer 04 Leverkusen in the Champions League on Wednesday, 05 November 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Bayer 04 Leverkusen secured a 1-0 victory over Benfica at the Estádio da Luz, a result that ended Benfica’s hopes of progressing in the Champions League. The match was a tight affair, with Leverkusen’s goal in the 65th minute proving decisive. Benfica, coming off a heavy defeat to Newcastle United, struggled to find their rhythm, while Leverkusen bounced back from a demoralising loss to Paris Saint Germain. The result was not entirely surprising given Benfica’s recent form, but Leverkusen’s resilience and tactical discipline were key to their success.

Despite Benfica’s higher possession and more corners, they failed to convert these advantages into goals. Leverkusen’s efficiency in front of goal and their ability to maintain a solid defensive structure were crucial. The German side’s win was a testament to their ability to capitalise on limited opportunities, a trait that has been evident in their recent performances. This victory not only ended Benfica’s run but also highlighted Leverkusen’s potential to challenge stronger teams in the competition.

Benfica held 53% of the ball possession compared to Leverkusen’s 47%, yet they were unable to translate this into a goal. The Portuguese side also had six corners to Leverkusen’s zero, indicating a more aggressive approach in attack. However, Leverkusen’s superior dribbling success rate of 67% to Benfica’s 33% suggests they were more effective in breaking down the opposition’s defence. Both teams received three yellow cards, reflecting a competitive and disciplined match.

The statistics highlight a game where Benfica dominated possession and set-piece opportunities but lacked the cutting edge in the final third. Leverkusen, on the other hand, were more clinical and efficient, which ultimately decided the match. Their ability to maintain a strong defensive shape while being effective on the counter-attack was evident in the final scoreline.

The pivotal moment of the match came in the 65th minute when Bayer 04 Leverkusen scored the only goal of the game. This goal was crucial as it not only secured the win but also effectively ended Benfica’s chances of advancing in the tournament. The timing of the goal was significant, as it came at a point when Benfica were pushing for a breakthrough.

This single goal was the turning point, shifting the momentum decisively in Leverkusen’s favour. Benfica’s inability to respond to this setback underscores their struggles in front of goal and their defensive vulnerabilities. The match’s outcome hinged on this moment, demonstrating the importance of clinical finishing in high-stakes games.

Benfica lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Anatoliy Trubin in goal and a backline of Fredrik Aursnes, Tomás Araújo, Nicolás Otamendi, and Samuel Dahl. The midfield was anchored by Enzo Barrenechea and Richard Ríos, with Dodi Lukébakio, Leandro Barreiro, and Georgiy Sudakov supporting striker Vangelis Pavlidis. Despite their solid structure, Benfica’s inability to convert possession and set-piece opportunities into goals was a significant factor in their defeat.

Bayer 04 Leverkusen deployed a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Mark Flekken in goal and a defensive trio of Jarell Quansah, Loïc Badé, and Edmond Tapsoba. The midfield was controlled by Arthur and Ibrahim Maza, with Aleix García and Alejandro Grimaldo providing width. Claudio Echeverri and Ernest Poku supported striker Christian Kofane. This setup allowed Leverkusen to maintain a strong defensive shape while being effective on the counter-attack, which was crucial in securing their victory.

Claudio Echeverri was named Bwin’s Man of the Match for his pivotal role in Bayer 04 Leverkusen’s victory. His contribution to the team’s only goal in the 65th minute was decisive, showcasing his ability to make an impact in crucial moments. Echeverri’s performance was a blend of creativity and effectiveness, making him a standout player in a tightly contested match.

Recent Champions League matches:

• Loss: 0-1 vs Bayer 04 Leverkusen (H)
• Loss: 0-3 vs Newcastle United (A)

Recent Champions League matches:

• Win: 1-0 vs Benfica (A)
• Loss: 2-7 vs Paris Saint Germain (H)

Currently in 35th position with 0 points, Benfica will face Casa Pia on November 09, 2025, at 20:30.

Currently in 21st position with 5 points, Bayer 04 Leverkusen will play Heidenheim on November 08, 2025, at 14:30.

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