Plzen – Benfica

Plzen host a daunting challenge as they prepare to face second‑placed Benfica on their own turf. Sitting tenth with ten points from two wins, four draws and two defeats, the Czech side have scraped a narrow +1 goal difference (16‑15) and will be looking to tighten up a defence that has conceded almost as many as it has scored. Benfica arrive in top form, unbeaten after six games, having amassed 16 points through five victories and a single draw while boasting a remarkable 21‑4 goal difference. The Portuguese giants will be keen to extend their flawless run and cement their hold on the upper echelons of the table, whereas Plzen will hope to turn a modest home record into a surprise point. Both teams know that the clash could prove pivotal in the race for European spots and the fight against relegation.