Match Preview :

The Red Devils can book their spot into the last 16 by beating Benfica at the Theatre of Dreams tonight. Manchester United had a difficult start to the group phase, but know victory over Benfica, coupled with Basel's failure to win away to Otelul Galati, would secure their passage.

Manchester United started Group C with a 1-1 draw away to Benfica before snatching a 3-3 home draw with Swiss side Basel. Then they managed back to back 2-0 wins over minnows Galati have put United in a strong position to progress and Ferguson will look to get the job done when Benfica visit tonight.

For the record, United beat Benfica to win their first European Cup back in 1968 and Ferguson is aware of the memories facing the Portuguese side will stir among supporters so this clash has a bit of history to go with it.

As for the team news, Ferguson is hoping striker Wayne Rooney will be fit for the game after he sat out training on Monday and he could start alongside Javier Hernandez. Captain Nemanja Vidic is suspended as a result of his sending off in the away win over Galati so, providing he shakes off a minor injury, Jonny Evans is expected to partner Rio Ferdinand in defence.

Meanwhile, Chris Smalling is nearing to returning from a toe injury while Danny Welbeck is a doubt, but Anderson and Tom Cleverley are definitely on the sidelines. Michael Owen is out until Christmas after hurting his hamstring in the opening stages of the recent home win over Galati, while Dimitar Berbatov will hope to get a rare chance to feature.

Benfica also have qualification to the last 16 in their sights and are aware that victory will put them top of the group. After the opening draw with United, Benfica beat Galati and Basel away from home before being held by the Swiss outfit in their last encounter. Jorge Jesus will be without Argentinian playmaker Javier Saviola due to a knee injury, while Enzo Perez and former Chelsea midfielder Nemanja Matic are also absent.

Predictions :

Take Manchester United and give the 3/4 ball.

Cheers and good luck,
Cruiser

The Pick :

Manchester United 2-1 Benfica

FIXED ODDS BETTING :

Take Manchester United to win

HANDICAP BETTING :

Main Bet:
Take Manchester United -3/4 AH