Benfica 0-1 Bayer 04 Leverkusen: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Ladbrokes’ post-match review of Benfica 0-1 Bayer 04 Leverkusen in the Champions League on Wednesday, 05 November 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Well, that was a tough one for Benfica, wasn’t it? Losing 0-1 at home to Bayer 04 Leverkusen, they just couldn’t find the back of the net despite having more possession. It’s a bit of a surprise, especially after their recent 0-3 loss to Newcastle United away. Bayer 04 Leverkusen, on the other hand, bounced back brilliantly from their 2-7 thrashing by Paris Saint Germain at home, showing real grit to secure this win and extend their run of form.

The game was a tight affair, with both teams showing plenty of fight. Benfica had their chances, but it was Bayer 04 Leverkusen who took the lead in the 65th minute and held on for the win. It’s a result that might sting for Benfica, who are struggling to find their rhythm. For Bayer 04 Leverkusen, this victory is a testament to their resilience and could be a turning point in their campaign.

Looking at the stats, Benfica had the upper hand in possession with 53% compared to Bayer 04 Leverkusen’s 47%. They also dominated in corners, winning six to none, which suggests they were pushing hard for a goal. However, Bayer 04 Leverkusen were more effective in their dribbling, with a successful dribble percentage of 67% against Benfica’s 33%.

Despite Benfica’s statistical edge in some areas, it was Bayer 04 Leverkusen who managed to control the game’s crucial moments. The equal number of yellow cards (three each) shows it was a fiercely contested match, but ultimately, it was Bayer 04 Leverkusen’s efficiency that made the difference.

The defining moment of the match came in the 65th minute when Bayer 04 Leverkusen scored the only goal of the game. It was a well-taken strike that proved to be the difference between the two sides.

This goal not only secured the win for Bayer 04 Leverkusen but also highlighted their ability to capitalise on their opportunities. For Benfica, it was a moment of frustration as they failed to respond despite their efforts.

Benfica lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation with Anatoliy Trubin in goal and a backline of Fredrik Aursnes, Tomás Araújo, Nicolás Otamendi, and Samuel Dahl. The midfield was anchored by Enzo Barrenechea and Richard Ríos, with Dodi Lukébakio, Leandro Barreiro, and Georgiy Sudakov supporting striker Vangelis Pavlidis. Despite their solid setup, Benfica struggled to convert their possession into goals.

Bayer 04 Leverkusen opted for a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Mark Flekken between the posts and a defensive trio of Jarell Quansah, Loïc Badé, and Edmond Tapsoba. The midfield was controlled by Arthur, Ibrahim Maza, Aleix García, and Alejandro Grimaldo, with Claudio Echeverri and Ernest Poku playing just behind the lone striker, Christian Kofane. This setup allowed them to be more clinical in their attacks, ultimately leading to their victory.

The Ladbrokes’ Man of the Match goes to Bayer 04 Leverkusen’s goal scorer, who netted the crucial goal in the 65th minute. Their ability to find the back of the net in a tightly contested match was the difference-maker. It was a performance that showcased their composure and finishing ability under pressure.

Recent Champions League matches:

• Loss: 0-1 vs Bayer 04 Leverkusen (H)
• Loss: 0-3 vs Newcastle United (A)

Recent Champions League matches:

• Win: 1-0 vs Benfica (A)
• Loss: 2-7 vs Paris Saint Germain (H)

Currently sitting in 35th place with 0 points, Benfica will face Casa Pia on November 09, 2025 at 20:30.

In 21st place with 5 points, Bayer 04 Leverkusen will take on Heidenheim on November 08, 2025 at 14:30.

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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.