Toe torment for Zahovic

Zlatko Zahovic will miss the beginning of SL Benfica's UEFA Cup campaign with a fractured toe.

Major blow
The Slovenian international playmaker suffered the injury, to his left foot, during the 2-0 defeat at FC Porto on Sunday and has been ruled out for the next six weeks. This means he will miss both legs of his side's UEFA Cup first-round tie against Belgian side RAA Louviéroise.

Long absence
"After performing some x-ray exams, we can confirm that Zahovic has fractured the first bone in the big toe of his left foot and will be unavailable for a period of between five and six weeks," said a Benfica spokesman.

Slovenian angle
Zahovic will also miss Slovenia's final UEFA EURO 2004™ Group 1 qualifying game in Cyprus on 11 October. Bojan Prasnikar's side have already earned a slot in the play-off ties that will take place on 15/16 and 18/19 November.

Cristiano doubtful
Benfica are also likely to be without left-sided defender Cristiano for tomorrow's match against La Louvière. The Brazilian is still complaining of a sore right thigh and is likely to be rested for the first leg in Charleroi.