Hearts crashed out of the Europa League but recovered some pride as they held Benfica to a draw in Edinburgh.
The Scots were crushed 6-1 in the first leg last week in Lisbon but put in a much-improved display at home.
Calvin Miller thought he had swept them ahead in the second half but a VAR call ruled it out for offside.
https://x.com/JamTarts/status/2088001846887473306
Tomas Magnusson then thumped them into the lead with a beauty from 25 yards but just moments later Dodi Lukebakio equalised on the night.
Hearts, so close to winning the title last season, do now advance to the Conference League play-off round and the chance to continue their European journey.
They take on Rapid Vienna in their next test.
City rivals Hibs are also in those play-offs. They drew 0-0 against Shkendija to seal a 2-1 win on aggregate.
Hearts coach Wouter Vrancken came up against a Benfica XI showing seven changes from the first leg and will take many positives from the display on the night.
Ultimately though there was a clear gulf in class between the sides and another tricky night for Scottish football showed that once again.
Former Aston Villa forward Jhon Duran was a threat throughout and should have put the visitors ahead before Magnusson’s fine low shot sparked the scoring.
