Juventus vs Benfica preview

April 30, 2014
By: Nemanja Lazarevic

Juventus vs BenficaWith Europa League final set to be played in Turin, Juventus will have an extra incentive to overturn a one-goal deficit from the first leg in Lisbon.

Benfica take a 2-1 lead into the return match, but Jorge Jesus’ side will have to work hard in order to spoil the party for the Bianconeri.

Juventus have had their share of disappointments this season as they crashed out of the Champions League in group stages, while also failing to reach the final stages of Coppa Italia.

Nevertheless, the Bianconeri are closing in on their third successive Serie A title, whereas they hope to clinch the Europa League trophy as well.

The weekend’s victory over Sassuolo that saw them retain an eight-point advantage over Roma with three games to go will allow Antonio Conte’s charges to fully focus on the return leg against Benfica.

Juventus were below par in the first leg, losing the clash 2-1, but they are 1.62 (5/8) to win the return match and 1.73 (8/11) to qualify for the final.

Arturo Vidal could return to the starting line-up having recovered from a knee problem, while Stephan Lichtsteiner and Leandro Bonucci should be recalled.

While winning all 17 league fixtures at their Juventus Arena this season, the Bianconeri have won three and drawn as many of six European fixtures on home soil.

Probable starting line-up (3-5-2): Buffon – Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini – Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah – Llorente, Tevez.

Benfica are on the road to return to old glory days as the team have been absolutely tremendous on all fronts this season.

Following a disappointing finish to the previous campaign, the Eagles have made things right this term and they are currently in the race to win amazing four major trophies.

The Primeira Liga title is already in the bag, whilst Jorge Jesus’ side will face Rio Ave in Taca de Liga and Taca de Portugal finals.

However, after suffering a heartbreaking defeat in last year’s final, Benfica would probably enjoy winning the Europa League trophy the most.

And they seem to be in a good position to reach the final for the second year running, having won the first leg 2-1, with BetVictor paying 2.20 (6/5) on the Eagles to qualify.

Jorge Jesus has received a welcoming boost as Enzo Perez, Nicolas Gaitan and Eduardo Salvio resumed full training ahead of the trip to Turin.

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Artur – Pereira, Garay, Luisao, Siqueira – Perez, A. Gomes – Markovic, Rodrigo, Gaitan – Lima.

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