Benfica set for Europa League qualifying clash with St. Gallen

Portuguese side Benfica travel to Switzerland for the first leg of the Europa League second‑qualifying round against FC St. Gallen on 23 July 2026. Coach Marco Silva warned that the squad is not at full strength, citing the absence of midfielder Leandro Barreiro due to a respiratory infection and the limited availability of recent signings Jhon Durán and Gabriel Índio. He added, “Any percentage of favoritism proves itself on the field, not beforehand.”

St. Gallen manager Enrico Massen acknowledged Benfica’s status as favourites but saw the lack of pressure as an opportunity, stating, “Nobody expects us to pass, and that can be an opportunity.” The Swiss club expects heavy traffic in the city, with police advising fans to use public transport for the match at the Sitterstadion, which will host around 17 000 spectators.

Both clubs view the tie as a chance to start the 2026/27 season competitively, with Silva emphasizing the need for “seriousness and professionalism” despite an atypical pre‑season caused by the recent World Cup.