Benfica director of football Rui Costa has said that the Portuguese side are a rising force in Europe after reaching their second Europa League semi-final in three years.
Benfica overcame Newcastle United 4-2 on aggregate in the quarter-finals to set up a last-four tie against Turkish side Fenerbahce.
"It's the second semi-final in three years. Benfica is rising and improving," Goal.com quotes Rui Costa as saying.
"We are happy to be here but we want to go further. The goal is to reach the final.
"The most important thing was to be in the draw. Either opponent is of high quality, Fenerbahce eliminated Lazio. We want to continue our journey, with the ambition to reach the final and represent Portugal in a European final. It will not be easy but we are optimistic."
The first leg of the semi-final will be played on April 25, with the second leg taking place on May 2.
Written by
Steven Toplis
Steven Toplis
