Celtic seek first Europa League points at Benfica

Celtic travel to Lisbon looking to claim their first Europa League points of the campaign when they face Benfica at the Estádio da Luz on Thursday night (kick-off 8 pm).

Martin O’Neill’s side entered the international break after three consecutive defeats, then responded with a solid 2-0 win away to Motherwell on Sunday. 

That result has lifted spirits as the Scottish champions prepare for a stern European test after opening their group-stage campaign with a disappointing 3-1 home loss to Ferencváros last month.

Benfica, by contrast, are in excellent form. Marco Silva’s team have won nine of their last ten matches in all competitions and began their Europa League campaign with an impressive 2-0 away win over AC Milan. The Portuguese giants will be strong favorites to extend that run against Celtic.

Celtic will welcome back Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. The England international has missed the club’s last three European fixtures through suspension but is available for selection again in Lisbon.

However, Portuguese winger Jota will not make a return to his former club. Although he marked his return from an 18-month injury absence with an appearance in the Motherwell win, the fan favorite was not included in Celtic’s Europa League squad and will have to watch from the sidelines.

Benfica will be without midfielder Enzo Barrenechea, who remains sidelined with a knee injury until next month. 

Polish playmaker Jakub Kamiński is also a major doubt after sustaining a thigh injury while on international duty.

Celtic face a formidable challenge but will hope their improved domestic form carries over to a positive European result. Celtic fans hope their European journey this campaign will be a success.