No easy ride for Benfica against AEK in Athens

BT Sport Extra, 8pm Tuesday

Benfica have already won a Champions League tie in Greece this season but they are not certain to repeat the trick against AEK Athens.

The 4-1 qualifying triumph over PAOK was a false result in as much as it did not show the difficulty Benfica had before progressing.

Benfica were held at home by PAOK and were losing in the return leg until a couple of penalties and a goalkeeping error helped the Eagles out.

Rui Vitoria’s men were held to a 2-2 draw by Chaves in their last league game and have the small matter of O Classico against Porto on Sunday which could well occupy the minds of Benfica supporters.

All the talk locally has been of giving Jonas a first start of the season – not so that he can punish AEK but so that the Brazilian striker will be fighting fit to pummel Porto.

AEK are tough to beat at home and can stay competitive.

Recommendation
Draw
1pt 23-10 general

Bet on this match at Soccerbase.com

Team news
AEK Athens Helder Lopes and Lucas Boye are injured. Alef is doubtful and Marko Livaja is suspended.

Benfica Jonas, Facundo Ferreyra and Salvio return but Jardel, Felix Joao and Gabriel are crocked.

Key stat
AEK Athens have drawn five of their last seven home European matches

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