Benfica’s pre-season start rests on Sporting’s cup final outcome | OneFootball

Benfica’s third-place finish means their pre-season start depends on Sporting’s Taça de Portugal result.

According to Glorioso 1904, Benfica will play in the Europa League next season after missing the Champions League. They are currently due to enter the second qualifying round on 23 July, which would bring an earlier start than usual.

Sporting are already in the Champions League third qualifying round and face Torreense in the Taça de Portugal final.

If Sporting win the trophy, they would forgo the Europa League berth attached to the cup, which would transfer to the league’s third-placed team, Benfica. That would put Benfica straight into the group stage and spare them six early fixtures, the second and third qualifying rounds and the play-offs.

A later start could offer more rest, help integrate internationals who featured at the World Cup and, if it happens, give extra time to find a replacement should José Mourinho depart. Benfica ended the league campaign with 80 points.

Source: Glorioso 1904