With the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League semi-final draws taking place alongside one another it's easy to forget the latter, however, this season the four remaining teams are all sides with an enormous reputation, and they could just of easily been a force within the Champions League had things worked out differently this season. Juventus will take on Benfica, who were in the final last season, whilst Sevilla and Valencia will face off in an all-Spanish semi-final. The final will take place in Juventus' stadium, so could they win the trophy at their home ground?
Juventus are the favourites as they are eight points clear at the top of Serie A, and they're unbeaten in 12 Europa League games. Add that to their possible home advantage for the final, and it's hard to look past the talented Italians. The Italian side beat Lyon 3-1 on aggregate, and the in form team are one to watch, but can they beat last seasons finalists Benfica?
The strength of Spanish football has been shown in both European competitions, with four Spanish teams in the last 8. With both Sevilla and Valencia facing off, La Liga is guaranteed a finalist, and that team would be a worthy winner. If as expected they take on Juventus, could they rise to the occasion and win despite the home advantage their opponents might have?
Whilst the Champions League is getting all of the spotlight, the Europa League is quietly reminding us of its existence, and why it can be just as entertaining.
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