Benfica Boss Silva Considers Team Changes for Hearts Europa League Qualifier

What Happened

Benfica's head coach, Marco Silva, is considering changes to his starting lineup for the second leg of their Europa League qualifier against Heart of Midlothian. The Portuguese manager indicated that he might use the match to evaluate players who have not yet featured in a starting role this season. This approach comes after Benfica secured a substantial 6-1 victory in the first leg played in Lisbon.

Silva noted that the atmosphere in Edinburgh would present a different environment compared to their home stadium. He emphasized that regardless of the first-leg result, the team's objective remains to win the upcoming match. "It doesn't matter who's going to start, it's always going to be Benfica. Our goal for the game is to win," Silva stated. He anticipates Hearts will be motivated to react after their significant first-leg defeat, expecting a high-intensity game.

Background

Several players, including Andreas Schjelderup, Richard Rios, Dodi Lukebakio, Amar Dedic, and Jhon Duran, have yet to start a competitive match for Benfica this season. Silva sees the second leg as an opportunity to integrate these players and assess their performance in an official game setting, especially as the team continues to integrate new signings following the World Cup.

Key Facts

• Benfica won the first leg of the Europa League qualifier against Heart of Midlothian 6-1.
• Benfica coach Marco Silva is considering changes to his team for the second leg.
• The potential lineup changes are to give starting opportunities to players who have not yet started a game this season.
• Silva stated Benfica's goal for the second leg is to win.