Chaves — Benfica : Match Preview and Prediction for October 17,2025

Chaves’ Uphill Battle

At the pre-match press conference, Chaves coach Filipe Martins all but conceded his team’s limitations. His remarks about needing to “play on the brink of perfection” and hoping “Benfica isn’t in the mood” are a stark admission of the significant class difference between the two sides. He is already mentally preparing everyone for his team to spend the majority of the match in a deep defensive block within their own half.

Lack of Offensive Threat

Such a tactical setup leaves Chaves with virtually no chance of developing any meaningful attacking play. When a team from the Second League attempts to contain a giant for 90 minutes, it simply depletes all energy and resources needed for counter-attacking opportunities. This assessment is further reinforced by the damning head-to-head statistics: Chaves has failed to score in four of their last five encounters against Benfica.

A Pattern of Dry Defeats

Furthermore, the trend of losing without scoring is systemic. In six of their last eight direct confrontations, Chaves has been defeated, failing to even register a goal. This clearly indicates that Chaves’ attack simply lacks the necessary tools to breach the elite defense of the Lisbon club.

Mourinho’s Uncompromising Stance

Any speculation about potential complacency from “the Eagles” is quickly dispelled by José Mourinho’s unequivocal statements. He explicitly declared, “I will change very little in the squad,” signifying that a near full-strength side will take the field. For Mourinho, cup matches are not experimental playgrounds but crucial steps towards securing silverware.

Defensive Solidity: Benfica’s Foundation

The foundation of the current Benfica team lies in its defensive organization. Mourinho proudly emphasized, “So far, we have not been overwhelmed in any game. Neither Chelsea nor Porto managed to dominate us.” In their last match before the international break, Benfica successfully nullified Porto’s formidable attack away from home (0-0), allowing their formidable opponent to create chances worth only 0.65 xG.

Elite Defense Against Weaker Offense

This statistic speaks volumes. If one of the league’s top teams, playing at home, can create so little against Benfica, what can be expected from a team from a lower division? Defensive organization is the Eagles’ primary strength, and it will be the decisive factor in this encounter. Even the announced start for Samuel Soares in goal should not mislead – Mourinho has publicly expressed his full confidence in him, calling him an “excellent goalkeeper” who has earned his opportunity.