Europa League Qualifying Best Bets - Second Qualifying Round First-Legs

CSKA Sofia were held in a 0-0 draw by Slavia Sofia in their last game as their four-match winning run across competitions came to an end. While they did keep a clean sheet in their last match, they failed to find the back of the net in a frustrating performance. With the second-leg of this tie to come at home, Sofia will target still being in the game at the start of the second meeting, and I back them to keep things tight despite failing to score. 

Benfica returned to the football pitch after nearly two months away with a battling 2-1 loss to Flamengo earlier in the month. They bounced back with a 2-0 win over Villarreal to ensure they arrive for this one on the back of a win. A lack of games between the pair means their Europa League qualifier will be the first time they have met, and the odds suggest the visitors are the side to back. Across their last 13 matches they have lost once, winning eight times and drawing four matches. While solid results have not been the issue for Benfica, their defence has. A single clean sheet across their last seven is a poor return, and while I back Benfica to secure the win, I do not predict that they will keep their hosts out.