Italian Serie A champions Juventus visit Lisbon for Thursday's UEFA Europa League semi-final first leg at Benfica. Juventus are determined to end their European drought by winning the Europa League this year, their last continental success was back in 1999 when they won the less famous Intertoto Cup. Moreover, this year's Europa League final will be played on their home stadium in Turin.
Benfica have just claimed the Portuguese title after a 2-0 win over Olhanense on Sunday, it's the 33rd domestic title in club history. Juventus are set to win the Serie A once again, for the third consecutive time. With a lot to play for on both fronts the Juve players might feel some fatigue but midfielder Claudio Marchisio says that determination can prove crucial in the tie against Benfica. "Many players in this team have never won a European competition and Juventus haven't won a trophy in Europe for so many years," Marchisio said. "When you reach this stage of the competition motivation can make the difference. So even if we're coming to the end of the season and our legs are beginning to feel heavy, the trophy can give you that energy to give that bit extra."
Juventus and Benfica are the only two sides remaining in the Europa League who are undefeated, but both have only entered the competition after dropping out of the UEFA Champions League at the group stages. Juventus have played Benfica over two legs in UEFA competition twice previously, with the Portuguese side winning both matches in the 1968 European Cup semi-final and Juventus getting revenge in the 1992-93 UEFA Cup quarter-finals. Benfica will be without winger Eduardo Salvio and defender Silvio, both injured. Juventus are unsure of Carlos Tevez's presence in the match as he struggles with a thigh issue.
Here are the odds for the match at Bet365:
Benfica win - 7/4
Draw - 23/10
Juventus win - 9/5
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Comments (1)
mico.femic.1
11/06/14, 12:11:50 AM
Benfica is a good team and a strong opponent of all. previous season was better I hope that this season will show a better game and give their best on the field...
Benfica is a good team and a strong opponent of all. previous season was better I hope that this season will show a better game and give their best on the field . I also think for just a hundred juventus juventus has better players and the team . and they have to show this season and all the best to do their best and to fight. you were always one of the first and only forward .
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