Bayern Munich vs Benfica: Match Preview, How to Watch and Score Prediction
Complete analysis of Bayern Munich vs Benfica pre-season friendly. Know when and how to watch, team news and expert predictions.
Football fans are in for an exciting pre-season clash as German giants Bayern Munich take on Portugal's prestigious Benfica. This match serves as a crucial preparation phase for both teams ahead of the upcoming season.
Match Significance and Context
This pre-season friendly represents an important milestone for both clubs as they prepare for upcoming competitions. Bayern Munich have recently begun working with their new coach, while Benfica have focused on giving their young players international experience.
Key Details
- Match Date: June 28, 2025
- Venue: Al Sadd Stadium, Qatar
- Time: 8:30 PM local time (11:00 PM IST)
- Match Type: Pre-Season Friendly
- Previous Encounter: Champions League Quarter Final 2024 (Bayern won 4-2)
Team News and Expected Lineups
Bayern Munich have several key players still resting after Euro 2025, which will provide opportunities for young talents to showcase their abilities. Meanwhile, Benfica have traveled with their main squad including recent signings.
Bayern Munich
Expected Lineup: Neuer; Mazraoui, Upamecano, De Ligt, Davies; Goretzka, Pavard; Sané, Musiala, Coman; Tel
Key Players: Jamal Musiala, Mathys Tel
Benfica
Expected Lineup: Trubin; Bah, Silva, Otamendi, Jurasek; Neves, Kokçu; Di Maria, Fernandes, Neres; Cabral
Key Players: Ángel Di Maria, João Neves
Tactical Analysis
Bayern Munich are likely to use their classic high-pressing 4-2-3-1 system, emphasizing fast transitions and attacking down the wings. With several first-team players absent, coach Vincent Kompany will likely test new combinations in midfield and attack.
Benfica, under manager Roger Schmidt, typically employ a fluid 4-2-3-1 system with emphasis on positional play. Their approach will focus on controlling midfield through João Neves while utilizing Di Maria's creativity in the final third.
Tactical Matchups to Watch
- Bayern's high press vs Benfica's build-up play
- Alphonso Davies' attacking runs vs Ángel Di Maria's movement
- Midfield battle between Leon Goretzka and João Neves
- Set-piece strategies from both sides
How to Watch Live
Broadcast Information
The match will be available on multiple platforms globally:
- Germany: Sky Sport Bundesliga
- Portugal: Sport TV
- International: FC Bayern TV, Benfica TV
- Streaming: DAZN (selected regions)
Kick-off is scheduled for 20:30 local time (Qatar), 18:30 BST, 13:30 EST, and 23:00 IST.
Expert Score Prediction
Considering both teams' current form and squad availability, analysts predict a competitive match with Bayern having a slight edge. Pre-season friendlies typically feature multiple substitutions and experimental lineups, which often leads to open games with several goals.
Sports analyst Maria Rodriguez notes: "While Bayern have more squad depth, Benfica's cohesive unit and tactical discipline could make this closer than expected. The heat in Qatar may also play a factor in the second half."
What This Match Means for the Season
For Bayern Munich, this match represents the first opportunity to implement Vincent Kompany's tactical ideas with a mix of established stars and promising youngsters. Success here could build momentum ahead of their Bundesliga title defense.
Benfica will view this high-profile friendly as valuable preparation for their Primeira Liga campaign and upcoming Champions League qualifiers. A strong performance against European elite would boost confidence throughout the squad.
Both managers will likely prioritize player fitness and tactical experimentation over the final result, making this an intriguing encounter for football purists.
