Benfica’s 2:1 victory at La Luz very much kept both sides in the running for the place in the final and there is no doubt the return leg will be just as entertaining as the first clash between the Liga Sagres rivals.

Sporting Braga scored a very important away goal through Vandinho and they are now 3.30 (23/10) to qualify for the final even though a 1:0 victory, priced at 9.50 (17/2) at Betfair, would be enough to win on away goals.

Domingos Paciencia’s side have already beaten Benfica at home some two months ago so they have reason to believe they can neutralize the one-goal advantage.

The boss faces certain selection problems with both Vandinho and Paulo Cesar suspended for this clash, while Ukra is ineligible.

Probable starting line-up (4-3-3): Artur – Paulao, Rodriguez, Garcia, Silvio – Viana, Mossoro, Salino – Meyong Ze, Alan, Lima.

Exactly 50 years ago Benfica qualified for their first ever European Cup final and now they have a great chance to make it to the Europa League final.

After eliminating Stuttgart, Paris Saint-Germain and PSV Eindhoven, the Eagles managed to beat Braga 2:1 at La Luz, meaning they are now favourites to go through, with William Hill paying 1.36 (9/25) on Benfica to qualify.

Coach Jorge Jesus is still unable to choose from a fully fit squad, but the injury situation has improved since Nico Gaitan and Carlos Martins are now fit to play.

Ruben Amorim, Nuno Gomes, Luis Filipe and Salvio are training away from the squad and they will not be in contention for this clash. Pablo Aimar misses out through suspension.

Probable starting line-up (4-1-3-2): Roberto – Pereira, Luisao, Jardel, Coentrao – Javi Garcia – Jara, Martins, Gaitan – Cardozo, Saviola.