Lens look for memorable comeback

Early breakthrough
Two goals from Paulo Barreto helped the Italian team to a comprehensive first-leg victory, but Lens, who won their two home group-stage fixtures, remain confident of causing an upset. "We did not see a great Italian side in Udinese," said assistant coach Eric Sikora. "The margin of defeat was more down to our weaknesses than their strengths. Statistically it's all against us, but if we score early on, we'll have a chance."

Dindane return
Ligue 1 rivals Paris Saint-Germain FC provide some hope, having recovered from an identical away loss against FC Steaua Bucuresti in UEFA Champions League qualifying in 1997. They went on to triumph 5-0 at home, and Lens are buoyed by the return of Ivorian striker Aruna Dindane from a calf injury, although Seydou Keita is suspended.

Personnel changes
Saturday's 4-1 reverse at Stade Rennais FC was hardly ideal preparation, yet Udinese also disappointed on Sunday, going down 2-1 at home to AC Siena. Coach Loris Dominissini is expected to make a number of changes, with Damiano Zenoni banned, and Marco Motta and Cesare Natali injured. Left-back Vincent Candela should play on native soil.

Lens 'danger'
Fausto Rossini could start in place of the rested Vincenzo Iaquinta in attack, and Vidigal is anticipating a tough game. "Lens are much stronger than the team we faced in the first leg," said the midfielder. "We will have to avoid conceding an early goal because Lens can be very dangerous at home. We are not in good form in our domestic league but we want to go as far as possible in the UEFA Cup."