In a crucial Primeira Liga encounter with implications for the title race and mid-table stability, Benfica vs Famalicão takes center stage on Monday, December 22, 2025, as the Eagles host the Vila Nova side at Estádio da Luz.
Benfica, sitting third with 32 points from 14 matches (9 wins, 5 draws, no losses), aims to keep the pressure on leaders Sporting CP after a commanding 4-0 win over Moreirense. Bruno Lage’s team, however, must cope with injuries to Alexander Bah, Dodi Lukebakio, Leandro Barreiro, and Bruma.
Famalicão, in sixth with 23 points (6 wins, 5 draws, 3 losses), remains unbeaten on the road in the league (3 wins, 3 draws) but is still smarting from a 4-1 Taça de Portugal defeat to Porto.
Benfica has been undefeated in their last 10 home meetings against Famalicão since 2019; this clash at the Luz promises home dominance and numerous goal-scoring opportunities.
Benfica vs Famalicão – Date, Time, Predictions, and More
Round 15 spotlights Benfica’s attacking prowess against Famalicão’s organized away form in a Primeira Liga tilt favoring the hosts.
| Match | SL Benfica vs FC Famalicão — Liga Portugal Betclic |
|---|---|
| Date | Monday, December 22, 2025 |
| Kick-off (local) | 8:45 PM UTC (3:45 PM ET / 12:45 PM PT) |
| Competition | Primeira Liga — Matchday 15 |
| Primeira Liga form | Benfica: W W D W D W Famalicao: W W L D L W |
Team News and Analysis
Benfica
- Benfica are reportedly still without long-term absentees such as Bruma, Nuno Félix, and Alexander Bah. Midfielder Leandro Barreiro is a doubt after missing a recent game. Manager José Mourinho has several selection decisions to make, but retains strong depth across the squad.
Famalicão
- Famalicão has a couple of selection questions — WhoScored notes that Sudakov is a doubt for the match, which could open a place for Prestianni or Schjelderup in attack if selection changes are required. Expect Famalicão to name a compact, counter-attacking eleven.
Analysis: Benfica’s home dominance (unbeaten 10 vs Famalicão) vs. Famalicão’s away unbeaten league run; injuries blunt visitors—Eagles control.
Head-to-Head Record
Benfica dominate the matchup with 10 wins out of 15, while Famalicão have just 2 victories, and there have been 3 draws. At home, Benfica are unbeaten in their last 10 games, with 7 wins and 3 draws since 2019.
All-time H2H (Recent)
| Date | Competition | Result | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 11, 2024 | Primeira Liga | Famalicão 2-0 Benfica | 2-0 |
| Other recent | Various | Benfica dominant home | Various |
Benfica vs Famalicão Predicted XI Lineups
- Benfica (4-2-3-1): Trubin; Dedic, Otamendi, Araujo, Dahl; Barrenechea, Rios; Aursnes, Rego, Sudakov; Pavlidis
- Famalicão (4-2-3-1): Carevic; Pinheiro, De Haas, Realpe, Soares; Van de Looi, De Amorim; Dias, Sa, Sorriso; Zabiri
Lage/Oliveira briefings: Benfica Pavlidis central; Famalicão Sá wide.
Key Players to Watch
- Benfica
- João Mário / Rafa Silva: Creators who will supply the forwards and control the tempo in the middle.
- Petar Musa / Gonçalo Ramos: Main goal threats who will test Famalicão’s defense in the box.
- Famalicão — (attacking trio) Prestianni / Scheldjerup / Aranda: Quick forwards who can punish space behind Benfica’s fullbacks if given room.
Match Prediction
Benfica’s quality and the Luz fortress outmatch Famalicão’s organization in a Primeira Liga showcase, sealing the win through control and Pavlidis’ sharpness. Vila Nova put up resistance but ultimately give way.
- Predicted score: Benfica 2-0 Famalicão.
Where to Watch Benfica vs Famalicão
Stream Benfica vs Famalicão live:
- USA: GolTV, Fanatiz, fuboTV.
- Canada: RTPi or streaming via club apps.
- Australia: Select RTPi or beIN Sports.
- Europe: Sport TV (Portugal), DAZN (Italy/Germany), beIN (France).
- Portugal: Benfica TV (BTV) and local broadcast partners.
- International: DAZN and regional rights holders often carry Liga Portugal games; Livesoccertv and Goal have updated broadcast lists — check local listings or your streaming service.