Thursday 01/05/2014, 20:00, Europa League, Semifinals, Juventus vs Benfica

Juventus vs Benfica Betting Preview

Juventus needs a narrow margin victory over Benfica tonight in order to advance to the final stage of the Europa League. Home pitch advantage and the fact that they don't have new injured players are solid arguments in favor of the Italian team. On the other hand, Benfica lost the last match on the road two months ago and are formidable upfront, being more than capable of scoring at Juventus Stadium.

Juventus vs Benfica Betting Odds

At Bet365

Juventus 1.60, Draw 4.30, Benfica 6.25

Juventus vs Benfica Betting Tips

The first leg began with Benfica in the offensive and the fact that they scored the first goal after just 5 minutes greatly helped them stay in control. The Portuguese side was on the verge of winning by two goals to none, but the visitors reduced the difference in the last 20 minutes.

This keeps them in the driver's seat and they have the first chance to qualify, which would bring them closer to another major trophy in 2014. Juventus has all but won the Serie A title and even though AS Roma has theoretical chances of overtaking them in the remaining rounds, this is most unlikely to happen.

Tevez and Llorente are red hot and the Argentinian broke the ice in the first leg by scoring his first goal in a European competition after 5 years. Both of them should have enough opportunities to score, but the midfield will be less effective without Vidal who is still injured. Juventus has a reliable defensive, but still allowed three goals in the last two games, so it is unlikely for them to keep a clean sheet.

Key Facts

• The two teams met once in 2012 in a friendly game which ended undecided and both scored one goal
• Lima is expected to start up front instead of Cardozo, with Rodrigo and Sulejmani behind him

Juventus vs Benfica Betting Prediction

Benfica won the domestic championship already and can win three trophies this season, with the Europa League and the Portuguese Cup within reach. Juventus is a force to be reckoned with at home, but the fact that they only need a narrow margin victory will keep them grounded. Even if Benfica loses tonight and misses qualification, it is unlikely for them to go down by more than one goal. Bet365 will return the stakes if Juventus wins by exactly one goal and the odds for his type of bet stand at 1.85.

Bet: Benfica +1 Asian Handicap @ 1.85 with Bet365