Benfica vs Gil Vicente prediction 29.10.2026 | Taça da Liga

Marco Silva's side are expected to rotate to some extent following their Europa League double-header against Celtic and Omonia, as well as a Liga Betclic fixture against Santa Clara over the weekend. The Eagles are in solid form both domestically and in Europe, having recorded four consecutive wins since returning from the international break.

Enzo Barrenechea and Leandro Barreiro are ruled out with injuries, while Jakub Kamiński and Banjaqui remain doubts. Jhon Durán is also facing suspension after being sent off against Santa Clara, although a disciplinary decision could potentially alter his availability.

Despite those absences, Benfica possess considerably greater depth and attacking quality. Pavlidis remains one of the major threats after his brace in the September meeting, while the Eagles have consistently demonstrated their ability to generate goals against Gil Vicente.

Gil Vicente had been building momentum before losing 1-0 to Porto last weekend. That defeat ended a three-match winning run, during which they beat Moreirense, Santarém and Braga. 

Their biggest concern is likely to be attacking availability. Héctor Hernández, their leading scorer with three goals in seven league appearances, remains doubtful because of a muscular injury and has not played since early October. Mohamed Bamba and Arthur Tchaptchet are also sidelined.

Gil Vicente's defensive organisation has nevertheless been encouraging. They have generally kept matches close, with their three recent away victories all decided by a single goal. That defensive resilience could help them remain competitive at the Luz, particularly if Benfica rotate their starting XI.