Hearts face Benfica in Europa League playoff at Estádio da Luz

Benfica host Scottish side Hearts in a Europa League playoff at Estádio da Luz on Thursday, with the kick‑off scheduled for 20:00. The Portuguese club sits 180 minutes away from the final playoff that would secure its place in the competition’s group stage.

A victory in this tie would move Benfica into the Europa League group phase, ending the 180‑minute gap that currently separates them from the decisive playoff.

Hearts arrive under the guidance of coach Cláudio Braga, looking to overturn the Portuguese side on their own ground.

The encounter forms part of the Europa League qualifying round, with the winner advancing to the league stage.

Estádio da Luz, Benfica’s home stadium, will host the match, offering familiar surroundings for the hosts.

The match is set to begin at 20:00 as announced.

Both sides know that the loser will be eliminated from the Europa League competition.