This Europa League third-round qualifier looks to have been settled in Lisbon, as Benfica ran riot in a 6-1 win to leave Hearts in need of one of football's greatest-ever comebacks.
New manager Wouter Vrancken has had a tough start to life in the Hearts dugout and, while qualification looks beyond them, they will be seeking some solace at Tynecastle.
Hearts were beaten 6-0 on aggregate by Sturm Graz in the second round of UEFA Champions League qualifying while they lost 2-1 in their Scottish Premiership opener against Aberdeen.
Vrancken did claim his first win on his fifth attempt, a 4-0 home win over Dundee United on Sunday, which would have gone some way to easing the tension in Edinburgh.
Now the Belgian will be demanding a positive performance against Benfica, who are also under new management this season, with former Fulham boss Marco Silva replacing Jose Mourinho following his departure to Real Madrid.
Benfica were frustrated in a 2-2 draw with Academico Viseu in their Primeira Liga opener and the commanding position they find themselves in may mean Silva opts to make changes.
Hearts v Benfica Tips Summary
Best Bet - Over 3.5 goals @ 6/5
Alternative Bet - Tomas Araujo anytime goalscorer @ 5/1
Bet Builder - Benfica to win, Both teams to score & Leandro Barreiro anytime goalscorer @ 7/1
Hearts v Benfica Prediction
Best Bet: Over 3.5 goals @ 6/5
Goals have been a common theme for Hearts during the early part of Vrancken's tenure, with three of their five matches featuring at least four goals, and they can play with the shackles off as they trail 6-1 after the first leg.
That hefty loss in Lisbon featured plenty of goalscoring chances, with Benfica winning the shot count 24-10, and it could be an all-out attacking affair at Tynecastle.
Given the scenario, both teams may opt to make changes as they prioritise their weekend fixtures, and there is no pressure on either side.
Benfica showed in the first meeting that they are a class above their Scottish Premiership rivals but they did lose 2-1 at St Gallen in the previous round of Europa League qualifying.
Both teams have scored in the Eagles' last nine away games, which offers Hearts hope, and Sunday's 4-0 win at home to Dundee United should have restored some confidence.
There have been 20 goals in Hearts' five matches with Vrancken in charge, while Benfica have racked up 18 goals in their last four outings to showcase their attacking talents.
Alternative Bet: Tomas Araujo anytime goalscorer @ 5/1
Benfica centre-back Tomas Araujo was a constant threat from set pieces in the first leg, registering three efforts at goal, including scoring the second goal.
The 24-year-old looks a player of immense potential and, standing at 6 ft 2 in, is sure to make his presence felt again.
Araujo has already been capped six times by Portugal, showing the regard in which he is held, and Benfica will be aiming towards him from dead-ball situations.
Hearts v Benfica Bet Builder Tip
Benfica to win
Both teams to score
Leandro Barreiro anytime goalscorer
Pays 7/1
Hearts are tough to beat at home, but they are still acclimatising to Vrancken's methods, and the gulf in class was so big in Lisbon that it is hard to envisage such a speedy change in fortunes.
The Scottish side may score again, though, as they are creating chances and both teams have netted in Benfica's last nine away games.
Leandro Barreiro caused plenty of problems for Hearts in the opening leg and, having had five shots and eight touches in the opponents' box, may be able to get in on the scoring action.
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Key Match Stats
There have been four or more goals in three of Hearts' last five games.
Both teams have scored in Benfica's last nine away outings.
Hearts have lost four of their first five matches under new manager Vrancken.
Benfica are unbeaten in four outings, winning three of those fixtures and scoring 18 goals.
Eleven of Benfica's last 12 matches have gone over 2.5 goals.
Hearts have lost only one of their last 23 home games.
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This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.
