The Europa League is Benfica’s level and they should have their sights set on the trophy in 2013.
It was a surprise that the Portuguese club found Celtic too good in the Champions League group stage behind Barcelona, before dropping into this competition, but they remain in decent form and can see off the challenge of their Thursday hosts.
A 1-0 advantage is never comfortable away from home but Bordeaux are a limited outfit and their form in France this term has been fairly hit and miss.
Three reversals in their previous six Ligue 1 home matches suggests that Benfica should fancy their chances and if they are able to nick one on the break then that should be enough to see them advance.
It is Cedric Carrasso’s own goal that actually separates the two sides but I’ve no doubt Benfica have the greater quality and they are tipped to stifle Francis Gillot’s side.
Bordeaux are barely in the top half of the French top flight, having won just five of 14 matches at Stade Jacques Chaban-Dalmas, but that is in contrast to Benfica who are still going head to head with Porto for the title.
In Oscar Cardozo, Benfica have a striker capable of making an impact at the very highest level and Jorge Jesus men have been terrific on the road this season.
It is nine wins and two draws in 11 Primeira Liga games this term away from home, conceding just eight goals, and they look value in the draw no bet market to me in a match which might be played perfectly to suit.
Bordeaux must attack and Benfica should be able to hit the home team on the break.
2pts Back Benfica (Draw No Bet, vs. Benfica) @ 1.80 (Boylesports)