NEC Nijmegen vs Benfica (21 January 2027, UEFA Europa League): match facts, form and head-to-head

NEC Nijmegen host a daunting Benfica side in what promises to be a stark contrast of form. The Dutch club sit tenth with just seven points from six games – two wins, a draw and three defeats, and a modest 11‑12 goal difference – while the Portuguese giants sit second, unbeaten on six outings, having amassed 16 points with five victories, one draw and a superb +17 goal margin (21‑4). The gap in both points and recent results suggests Benfica will enter the match as clear favourites, yet Nijmegen will be desperate to claw back into the top half and could look to exploit any complacency. A win for the hosts would be a massive upset, but the odds heavily favour a comfortable Benfica performance.