Match Summary
Red Bull Salzburg defeated Benfica 2:0. The match was played in UEFA Champions League 2023. Goals were scored by R. Šimić 15′ (pen.), O. Gloukh 51′. 7 yellow cards were shown, 1 red cards. Benfica had 56% possession while Red Bull Salzburg held 44%. Benfica had 15 shots (6 on target) compared to 14 (5 on target) for Red Bull Salzburg. Expected goals: Benfica 1.48 — Red Bull Salzburg 2.97. Benfica made 5 substitutions, Red Bull Salzburg made 5.
Match Events
Key match events between Benfica and Red Bull Salzburg — 2 goals and 8 cards recorded during the match.
Penalty
assist: R. Šimić
Match Statistics
Benfica had 56% possession against Red Bull Salzburg's 44%. Benfica registered 15 shots (6 on target) while Red Bull Salzburg managed 14 (5 on target). Corner kicks: 4–5. Fouls committed: 9–19.
Lineups
Benfica lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation under R. Schmidt, while Red Bull Salzburg deployed a 4-3-1-2 under G. Struber.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Benfica is 7.30, compared to 6.97 for Red Bull Salzburg. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Benfica's highest-rated starter is Á. Di María (8.06), while Red Bull Salzburg's best-rated player is A. Schlager (7.33).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Benfica have contributed 6 goals and 4 assists this season, led by Á. Di María (4G). Red Bull Salzburg's starters account for 2 goals and 2 assists, spearheaded by M. Kjærgaard (2G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Benfica deploy 4 defenders rated 6.99 on average, against Red Bull Salzburg's 4-man backline averaging 6.77. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Benfica field 5 midfielders averaging 8.06, versus Red Bull Salzburg's 4 rated 7.10. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Benfica start 1 forward(s) averaging —, compared to 2 for Red Bull Salzburg averaging —. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 79% for Benfica and 83% for Red Bull Salzburg. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Benfica's starters have collected 3 yellow cards this season, compared to 0 for Red Bull Salzburg. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Benfica's starting XI is 28.2 (youngest: António Silva (22), oldest: Á. Di María (37)), while Red Bull Salzburg average 23.7 (youngest: S. Baidoo (21), oldest: A. Schlager (29)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Benfica's starters average 8 league appearances each, versus 2 for Red Bull Salzburg. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Benfica have recorded 4 wins, 1 draws and 1 defeats. Red Bull Salzburg show 1 wins, 2 draws and 3 losses from their last 6 outings.
Benfica
Red Bull Salzburg
API data: 15 Mar 2026