Benfica — Arouca : Match Preview and Prediction for October 25,2025

Benfica’s Recent Performance and Form

José Mourinho’s Benfica squad is evidently struggling for form following the October international break. While they secured a 2-0 cup victory against Chaves last weekend, thanks to a Pavlidis brace, this was followed by a comprehensive defeat in the Champions League away to Newcastle. The ‘Special One’s’ characteristic Lisbon ‘bus’ strategy failed to withstand the pressure and pace of the ‘Magpies’, resulting in a 0-3 loss.In my view, Bruno Lage’s tenure saw a more visually appealing and effective style of play. Benfica under Mourinho, however, appears to be shifting towards pragmatism and a sluggish on-field approach, which I find entirely unconvincing. Their three losses from three Champions League matches are hardly surprising. If this trend continues, Mourinho might not even complete the season. For the upcoming match against Arouca, the hosts will be missing Ba, Felix, Manu, Dedic, and Bruma, all due to injuries.

Arouca’s Background and Recent Performance

Arouca, based in the Aveiro province, is considered a reliable mid-table team in the . Occasionally, they even manage to secure qualification spots for European competitions, but generally, they are a solid, competent side. Notably, they denied the “Eagles” (Benfica) the championship last season, drawing 2-2 at the Estádio da Luz late in the campaign.Currently, Vasco Seabra’s team is positioned 11th in the league standings. They demonstrate good scoring ability but also concede quite a few goals, with a goal difference of 10-19. Nevertheless, the visitors head to Lisbon in high spirits, having successfully navigated a tough cup fixture against Portimonense last week, winning 2-1 thanks to a brace from Puche. Arouca has been meticulously preparing for Benfica all week, although they will be without Flores and Simão due to injuries for this match.