Benfica learn Europa League opponents after Torreense 'shock' | OneFootball

Against all possible and imaginable odds, Torreense, a team still fighting for promotion to the Primeira Liga, secured the direct spot in the Europa League, forcing Benfica to take the more difficult route. After the Torres Vedras side’s victory in the Portuguese Cup was confirmed, the Eagles already know some of their potential opponents.

According to Record newspaper, following the surprise achieved by Luís Tralhão’s team, brother of José Mourinho’s assistant João Tralhão, Benfica are required to begin pre-season much earlier than would be expected, since they will have to play in the competition’s second qualifying round as early as 23 July, and the list of opponents is beginning to grow.

Based on information gathered by the sports daily, the draw is scheduled for 17 July, with the Eagles appearing as a seeded team due to their UEFA coefficient and ranking. Along the way, the club from Luz could face old acquaintances, such as Beşiktaş, where Orkun Kökçü plays.

However, the list does not end there. In addition to the Turkish side, Benfica could also cross paths with Twente of the Netherlands, Norway’s Tromsø, or even Switzerland’s St. Gallen. Also in José Mourinho’s team’s path could be the winner of the Cypriot Cup (Apollon Limassol or Pafos), as well as the winner of the Israeli Cup (Hapoel Be'er Sheva or Maccabi Tel Aviv).

. As for the rest, the Hungarian and Azerbaijani sides, if they qualify, will also be seeded and therefore will avoid Benfica.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.