The knockout stage begins with two intriguing matchups. Brazilian rivals Palmeiras and Botafogo meet in an all-South American clash after advancing from tough groups, while Portuguese champions Benfica face English giants Chelsea, who finished runners-up in Group D.
Match 49 – Round of 16
SE Palmeiras SP vs. Botafogo FR RJ
Kick-off: 28 June at 18:00 SAST
Venue: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
Palmeiras (outright odds 26.00) progressed through Group A unbeaten, securing qualification thanks to a superior goal difference over Inter Miami. Their campaign included a 2-0 win over Al Ahly and a 2-2 draw with Inter Miami. Botafogo (outright odds 41.00), meanwhile, finished second in Group B behind PSG. They defeated Seattle Sounders and stunned PSG with a 1-0 win but lost narrowly to Atlético Madrid.
Betting – click here to bet
Palmeiras – 2.40
Draw – 3.00
Botafogo – 3.40
I am expecting a tight game and fancy the 90 minute draw will be a big runner.
Bet: The draw at 3.00 (for a bigger priced option the 1-1 draw is trading at 6.00)
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Match 50 – Round of 16
Benfica vs. Chelsea
Kick-off: 28 June at 22:00 SAST
Venue: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte
Benfica (outright odds 41.00) topped Group C with an impressive seven points, including a dominant 6-0 win over Auckland City and a crucial 1-0 victory over Bayern Munich. Chelsea (outright odds 13.00) finished second in Group D, securing wins against LAFC and Espérance but falling short in a 3-1 loss to Flamengo. Both sides have attacking threats and solid defences, setting up a thrilling knockout tie.
Betting – click here to bet
Benfica – 3.60
Draw – 3.40
Chelsea – 2.15
This should be a very tight contest and the draw once again looks a big runner. I get the feeling though that the value lies in backing Benfica to pull off a minor upset.
Bet: Benfica win at 3.60
Odds correct at the time of writing but subject to change.
