Chelsea 1-0 Benfica: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Bwin's post-match review of Chelsea 1-0 Benfica in the Champions League on Tuesday, 30 September 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Chelsea secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Benfica at home, a result that aligns with their recent form after a loss to FC Bayern München. The match was decided by an own goal in the 18th minute, showcasing Chelsea's ability to capitalise on defensive errors. This win breaks Benfica's run of losses, following their defeat to Qarabağ. Chelsea's performance was solid but not spectacular, suggesting they managed the game well to secure the three points.

The result was not entirely surprising given Chelsea's home advantage and Benfica's struggles in recent matches. Chelsea's ability to maintain a clean sheet despite a red card late in the game highlights their defensive resilience. Benfica, on the other hand, failed to convert their possession into goals, continuing their challenging period. This match underscores Chelsea's potential to grind out results even when not at their best.

Chelsea's 56% possession compared to Benfica's 44% reflects their control of the game, though not overwhelmingly so. The Blues managed fewer corners (3) than Benfica (5), indicating perhaps a more direct approach or less emphasis on crossing. Both teams received five yellow cards, showing a competitive and physical encounter, but Chelsea's red card suggests they were pushed to the limit. The statistics largely align with the result, with Chelsea's slightly higher possession and successful dribbles (50% vs. 48%) contributing to their victory.

The pivotal moment of the match came in the 18th minute when an own goal by a Benfica player handed Chelsea the lead. This early goal set the tone for the game, forcing Benfica to chase the match. Despite their efforts, Benfica could not find an equaliser, and the own goal proved decisive.

Chelsea's discipline was tested as they received a red card, which could have shifted the momentum. However, their defence held firm, and they managed to see out the game with a one-goal lead. This resilience under pressure was crucial in securing the win.

Chelsea lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, with Robert Sánchez in goal and a backline of Malo Gusto, Trevoh Chalobah, Benoît Badiashile, and Marc Cucurella. The midfield trio of Facundo Buonanotte, Moisés Caicedo, and Enzo Fernández provided stability and control. Up front, Pedro Neto, Tyrique George, and Alejandro Garnacho offered a dynamic attacking threat. The lineup was largely expected, with no major surprises, and the team's performance was solid, particularly in defence.

Benfica also deployed a 4-3-3 formation, with Anatoliy Trubin in goal and a defense consisting of Amar Dedić, António Silva, Nicolás Otamendi, and Samuel Dahl. The midfield was anchored by Richard Ríos, Enzo Barrenechea, and Fredrik Aursnes, while Dodi Lukébakio, Vangelis Pavlidis, and Georgiy Sudakov led the attack. Despite their efforts, Benfica struggled to break down Chelsea's defense. Samuel Dahl's performance was notable, as he created one big chance and made three key passes.

Samuel Dahl of Benfica is Bwin's Man of the Match, despite being on the losing side. His contribution was significant, creating one big chance and making three key passes, which were the highest in the game. Dahl's performance in midfield was a bright spot for Benfica, showcasing his ability to influence the game even without scoring or assisting.

Recent Champions League matches:

• Win: 1-0 vs Benfica (H)

• Loss: 1-3 vs FC Bayern München (A)

Recent Champions League matches:

• Loss: 0-1 vs Chelsea (A)

• Loss: 2-3 vs Qarabağ (H)

Sitting at 17th in the Champions League with 3 points, Chelsea will face Liverpool, who are just above them at 16th with 3 points, on October 04, 2025 in the premier league. This result against Benfica should boost their confidence, and they will likely approach the Liverpool game with a focus on maintaining their defensive solidity while looking to exploit any weaknesses in Liverpool's backline.

At the bottom of the Champions League with 0 points, Benfica's next challenge is in the Primeira Liga against Porto on October 05, 2025. The loss to Chelsea will add pressure to perform, and Benfica will need to regroup quickly to avoid another defeat. Their approach against Porto will likely involve a more aggressive offensive strategy to secure their first points of the season.

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