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Can Barcelona end Benfica's Champions League hopes?

Looking back at the Group Stage draw, many believed that Benfica and Barcelona would be the two teams that would cruise to the next round. Unfortunately for Benfica, they see themselves with a possibility of not making the knockout stage, while Barcelona's engine just keeps on ticking despite having a new manager. 

With Guardiola's departure, it was said that Barcelona could possibly struggle, but they have done the opposite. Although Tito Vilanova's side was defeated by Celtic in a memorable match that had Rod Stewart in tears, the Blaugrana have been in astonishing form. 

Wednesday the Spanish giants will host a Benfica side that is looking to end a long history of never defeating a Spanish side away from home. 

Barcelona is expected to rest some of their starters considering they have already secured the top spot in the group, while Benfica will have to do without Carlos Martins, Enzo Perez, Salvio and Aimar who are out due to injury.

One concern Benfica will have is having to deal with Lionel Messi who has been terrorizing defenses as of late. Needing to score two goals to break Gerd Muller's record of 85 goals in a calendar year, the Argentine will be highly motivated going into this match.

Previous Matches

10-02-12 Benfica 0-2 Barcelona

04-05-06 Barcelona 2-0 Benfica

03-28-06 Benfica 0-0 Barcelona

Prediction

Jorge Jesus knows how difficult Wednesdays match will be, but he remains hopeful that his side will travel to the Nou Camp in search of the full three points. How truthful is he being? Or shall we say how realistic? 

Well beating Barcelona on any given day isn't easy, especially at home. The Portuguese manager is well aware of what he is saying and he is basically hoping that his confidence carries over to his players.

Expect a Benfica side full of confidence and belief to start the match against Barcelona. The longer the match goes on without a goal, the better it will be for Benfica's morale.

An early goal would really rattle the visitors, but they must make sure they do not play into the idea of trying to only keep Messi at bay. This Barcelona side is more than just one player and focusing mainly on one player could be fatal for their Champions League aspirations.

It's difficult to argue the fact that Barcelona are favorites in this match, but Benfica have the potential to make this an interesting match.

Barcelona 2-1 Benfica

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