Match Summary
Benfica defeated Toulouse 2:1. The match was played in UEFA Europa League 2023. Goals were scored by Á. Di María 68′ (pen.), M. Desler 75′, Á. Di María 90′ (pen.). 8 yellow cards were shown, 1 red cards. Benfica had 58% possession while Toulouse held 42%. Benfica had 27 shots (5 on target) compared to 6 (2 on target) for Toulouse. Expected goals: Benfica 3.19 — Toulouse 0.53. Benfica made 3 substitutions, Toulouse made 5. VAR was involved: Penalty confirmed (Ángel Di María 66′).
Match Events
Key match events between Benfica and Toulouse — 3 goals and 9 cards recorded during the match.
Penalty
assist: T. Dallinga
Penalty
Match Statistics
Benfica had 58% possession against Toulouse's 42%. Benfica registered 27 shots (5 on target) while Toulouse managed 6 (2 on target). Corner kicks: 6–2. Fouls committed: 7–19.
Lineups
Benfica lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation under R. Schmidt, while Toulouse deployed a 4-2-3-1 under Carles Martínez.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Benfica is 7.32, compared to 7.15 for Toulouse. 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 Toulouse's best-rated player is A. Dønnum (7.33).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Benfica have contributed 7 goals and 3 assists this season, led by Á. Di María (4G). Toulouse's starters account for 12 goals and 6 assists, spearheaded by Y. Gboho (8G). 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 7.19 on average, against Toulouse's 4-man backline averaging —. 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 Toulouse's 5 rated 7.27. 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 1 for Toulouse 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 82% for Benfica and 70% for Toulouse. 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 7 yellow cards this season, compared to 11 for Toulouse. 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 28.3 (youngest: António Silva (22), oldest: Á. Di María (37)), while Toulouse average 25.3 (youngest: G. Restes (20), oldest: V. Sierro (30)). 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 18 league appearances each, versus 20 for Toulouse. 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. Toulouse show 2 wins, 2 draws and 2 losses from their last 6 outings.
Benfica
Toulouse
API data: 15 Mar 2026