The original decision was taken by UEFA's disciplinary committee, who will now get the chance to examine the case again after their initial ruling was dismissed after new evidence came to light.

A UEFA statement read: "The Appeals Body decided, in the light of new evidence submitted in relation to domestic Portuguese appeals procedures, to refer the matter back to the Control and Disciplinary Body for reassessment."

The statement continued: "Having listened to representatives of Porto, the Portuguese Football Federation, Benfica and Vitoria, as well as UEFA, the Appeals Body decided to annul the challenged decision and to refer the matter back to the Control and Disciplinary Body for reassessment.

"The Control and Disciplinary Body will meet next week to take a decision on Porto's admission to the 2008/09 UEFA Champions League. The date of the meeting will be communicated in due course."