Al Ain can create from central passes and wide delivery, but Tractor have shown a sturdy first layer around their centre-backs. The cleared second ball should decide how long Al Ain can sustain attacks. Benfica should control territory against Santa Clara's compact centre. Santa Clara's direct release gives that match a different rhythm whenever the home side escapes pressure.
Romero and Palacios can find Houssine behind the line, while Lazaro keeps a wide route open. Tractor's Faraji and Khalilzadeh can meet the first runner, and Esmaeilifar or Naderi can release Moghanlou and Hosseinzadeh after a clearance. Soufiane Rahimi is unavailable after leaving Al Ain's last cup match early, removing a separate runner and provider; reports of missing Tractor midfield and left-side players conflict with their coach's account, while Jafari has already played the continental match and completed the latest league game. I expect Al Ain to have the first dangerous spells, followed by Tractor's direct outlets and later receiving options. I'm siding with Tractor to keep the contest close.
Benfica's left-side movement and high recoveries can pin Santa Clara near its box, but Ferreira and Ribeiro give the home side central protection before Vinícius or Paciência receives a longer exit. Djé is suspended after his cup dismissal; Santa Clara's replacement is not confirmed, and França's proposed return is a report rather than an announced lineup. Benfica's known absences were already reflected in the Omonia squad, while Pavlidis left that match injured and Durán's recovered availability does not establish a full workload. Benfica can keep probing after the break, yet Santa Clara's compact first and second contacts and longer recovery support another close passage. I'm siding with Santa Clara to stay within reach.
