FC St. Gallen starts training with the Europa League qualifying match against Benfica Lisbon. The Swiss Cup winner faces the 38-time Portuguese champion on July 23 and 30.

What does the coach say?

Coach Enrico Maassen described the draw as «probably the most challenging» of all. «It's going to be great. In Lisbon, but of course also at home. It's about something and we play every game to win – also against Benfica», says Maassen.

What's the team's situation?

The team has remained largely intact. The only significant departure is that of striker Alessandro Vogt, who scored 15 league goals in the previous season. «We've stayed together after a good season», says captain Lukas Görtler.

What's next?

On Saturday, St. Gallen plays its first of five test matches. The opponent in Widnau is Altach (AUT). In a month, the team will start the Super League with a match against FCZ (July 26). But three days before that, a much bigger challenge awaits with the home game against Benfica.

GameDateOpponent
Test matchJuly 22Altach (AUT)
Super LeagueJuly 26FCZ
Europa LeagueJuly 23Benfica Lisbon