Preview: Bayer Leverkusen vs. Benfica

Bayer Leverkusen and Benfica go head to head in Group C of the Champions League on Wednesday, with both teams in need of the points.

Leverkusen's campaign got off to a losing start two weeks ago as they suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat away to Monaco.

Meanwhile, Benfica were dealt an early blow in their bid to reach the last 16 with a 2-0 loss at home to Zenit St Petersburg.

Hosts Leverkusen head into the match with just one victory in their last six outings. Benfica's recent record looks much stronger with four wins from a possible six.

Gonzalo Castro is a doubt for the home side with a thigh problem, while Julian Brandt and Simon Rolfes remain sidelined. Julio Cesar, Paulo Lopes and Enzo Perez are all likely to be unavailable for Benfica.

Recent form

Leverkusen: DDLLWD

Benfica: WDWLWW

Possible starting lineups

Leverkusen: Leno; Hilbert, Jedvaj, Spahic, Wendell; Reinartz, Bender; Bellarabi, Calhanoglu, Son; Kiessling

Benfica: Moraes; Luisao, Pereira, Eliseu, Jardel; John, Gaitan, Salvio, Samaris; Talisca, Lima

Sports Mole says: 2-1