Benfica advances to Europa League playoffs after draw with Hearts

Benfica has advanced to the Europa League playoffs following a 1-1 draw against Hearts in Edinburgh. The result gives the Portuguese side a 7-2 aggregate victory after their dominant performance in the first leg in Lisbon. In the match at Tynecastle Park, Tomas Magnusson opened scoring for Hearts in the 77th minute, but Dodi Lukebakio equalized for Benfica two minutes later.

Amidst the qualification success, Benfica player Amar Dedić traveled with the squad to Scotland. While coach Marco Silva confirmed Dedić is available for selection, media reports suggest the player may not feature due to ongoing transfer negotiations. Reports indicate that Newcastle United is seeking to acquire Dedić, with discussions reportedly centered around a fee potentially reaching 30 million euros.