Hearts face a daunting Europa League third qualifying round tie against Benfica, following their Champions League exit to Sturm Graz. The Lisbon giants, boasting a squad worth over £300 million, are overwhelming favourites.
Hearts' Difficult Start
New boss Wouter Vrancken has endured a baptism of fire, with a stoppage-time collapse at Pittodrie and a heavy aggregate defeat to Sturm Graz. Benfica, who went unbeaten in the Portuguese League under Jose Mourinho last season, present an even tougher challenge.
Our Writers' Predictions
Craig Swan: Benfica 3 Hearts 0
Scott McDermott: Benfica 4-0 Hearts
Scott Burns: Benfica 3 Hearts 1
Ross Pilcher: Benfica 3 Hearts 0
Ryan McDonald: Benfica 4 Hearts 0
All predict a difficult night for Hearts, with the focus on keeping the score respectable before aiming for the Conference League group stage.
