Benfica will kick off the new season on Wednesday evening when they travel to Moscow for the opening leg of their UEFA Champions League third round qualifier against Spartak Moscow.
In the previous season of the Primeira Liga, Benfica had a disastrous run. They came in third place behind Sporting Lisbon and Porto at the end of the season.
As a result, their activities during the summer transfer window should not come as a surprise.
Jorge Jesus restructured the team, bringing in players such Roman Yaremchuk, Joao Mario, and Soualinho Meite. The team profited handsomely from the simultaneous sales of Franco Cervi, Pedrinho, and Nuno Tavares.
Benfica was undefeated in pre-season, defeating Casa Pia, Almeira, and Lille before drawing 1-1 with Olympique Marseille in their final warm-up game before the season's official start.
Spartak Moscow, the runner-up in the last Russian Premier League season, has already played competitively this month.
Spartak Moscow vs. Benfica Trends
Benfica's lack of match fitness could be a major issue here. Last time out, they were startled to be eliminated at this level of the game by Greek PAOK, and we wouldn't be surprised if they got off to a shaky start in Moscow.
We don't expect to see many goals in this match 2.5 Under but to be on the safe side 3.5 under works best
Prediction: We predict 3.5 Under for this match
Tip: 3.5 Under
