SL Benfica

vs

Hearts Of Midlothian FC

Tips, Stats and Odds

Benfica have the momentum

SL Benfica will be the clear favorites to win this match at 9/50, with the draw at 28/5 and Hearts Of Midlothian FC as the outsider. Both of Benfica's last 2 results have been wins, but those came at the end of an otherwise very impressive run of 6 wins, 2 draws and 2 losses in their 10 most recent games in all competitions. That's more than enough form to take into this UEFA Europa League Qualification match with confidence, and Benfica will be determined to hit the ground running in Europe. Hearts have won 5, drawn 1 and lost 4 of their 10 most recent matches in all competitions, so there's enough momentum there to compete in this tie, but their current 2 game losing streak and the fact that they are the battlers means that they'll need to be at their best to get a result from Thursday's game. Hearts' recent form, 2 wins and 3 losses, has been a little wobbly, but Amadou Ba-Sy has provided a spark at the other end, netting 2 of Hearts' 5 goals in their last 5 outings.

An attacking encounter is on the cards

Marco Silva has Benfica playing more with the ball on the half spaces and seeking quicker, more vertical penetration, while Wouter Vrancken has made Hearts a more proactive, attacking outfit. The first signs indicate that Hearts can be caught out on the break, and with Benfica looking to take control of the match, that clash should open this game up a little if the visitors need to press forward to get back into it.

Benfica to edge an entertaining encounter

There is a feeling about this match that Benfica will control the tie, and given the odds and the form, that's the selection that stands out. If they keep things compact at the back, the Portuguese champions should be able to keep a clean sheet, but this should be an entertaining fixture and Over 2.5 at 47/100 and Both Teams To Score - No at 3/5 look like the odds to fancy in the goals markets.