Benfica set for Europa League clash with Hearts in Edinburgh

Hearts suffered a 2-1 defeat to Aberdeen in the Scottish league, conceding a late penalty that completed the comeback. The loss follows their heavy 8-0 aggregate loss to Sturm Graz in the Champions League qualifiers, which relegated them to the Europa League third qualifying round. Their next opponent is Portuguese side Benfica, with the first leg scheduled for Thursday, 6 August, at the Estádio da Luz in Lisbon. The return match will be played on 13 August in Edinburgh.

UEFA has appointed Dutch referee Sander van der Eijk to officiate the second leg between Hearts and Benfica. He will be assisted by Rens Bluemink and Stefan De Groot, with Dennis Higler serving as the video assistant referee. The first leg in Lisbon will be refereed by Romanian Marian Barbu.