Real Madrid vs Benfica : How Real Madrid Overcame Benfica to Reach UCL Last 16 — Tactical Analysis

Real Madrid defeated Benfica 2–1 (3–1 on aggregate) in a hard-fought Champions League playoff to secure a place in the last 16. Detailed tactical insights, key performers, and implications for both clubs in real madrid vs benfica.

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Real Madrid vs Benfica

In the UEFA Champions League 2025–26 knockout playoff second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid hosted Benfica seeking to build on a 1–0 first-leg advantage. The Portuguese side struck first on the night, but Madrid responded swiftly before eventually sealing the tie. This match carried added emotional and competitive weight, following an earlier alleged racial abuse incident in the first leg and both clubs’ desire to progress deep into Europe’s elite competition. Real Madrid’s victory keeps their storied continental campaign alive while ending Benfica’s in this year’s UCL.

Match Overview — real madrid vs benfica

Real Madrid secured a 2–1 win at the Bernabéu to complete a 3–1 aggregate victory and advance to the Champions League round of 16. Benfica stunned the home crowd with an early goal, but Los Blancos responded with composure before a decisive late strike ultimately settled the tie.

Tactical Breakdown — How Real Madrid Won

Early Intent from Benfica

Benfica made a promising start, pressing Madrid’s defense and scoring first through Rafa Silva, forcing Real Madrid to recalibrate their tactical setup early in the game. The early goal shifted momentum and required Madrid to regain control through structured possession.

Swift Response & Midfield Control

Real Madrid reacted almost immediately through a powerful strike by Aurelien Tchouaméni, which not only restored parity but also shifted territorial advantage back to the hosts. From there, Madrid controlled midfield tempo, limiting Benfica’s transitions and reducing clear chances for the Portuguese side.

Vinícius Jr’s Decisive Impact

The Brazilian forward stepped up once again, scoring the crucial second goal around the 80th minute to secure the tie. His pace and movement stretched the defense, creating space for a clinical finish that ultimately ended the contest.

Defensive Resilience Under Pressure

Despite occasional threats and near-misses from Benfica — including a shot hitting the bar — Real Madrid’s defense, led by experienced internationals, managed to contain sustained pressure through disciplined shape and timely interceptions.

Key Performers in real madrid vs benfica

• Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid): Scored the decisive late goal and continued his impressive form in Europe.
• Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid): Equalised early and helped control transitions throughout the match.
• Fede Valverde (Real Madrid): Engine in midfield with high work rate and key involvement in build-up play.
• Rafa Silva (Benfica): Scored for the visitors and put early tactical pressure on Madrid’s backline.

Off-Field Narrative & Emotional Undercurrents

The tie also carried emotional headlines beyond tactics. An alleged racial abuse incident during the first leg involving Vinícius Júnior dominated narratives around the fixture, with UEFA investigation and player suspensions casting a backdrop that added intensity to the rematch in Madrid.

Tournament Implications

Real Madrid’s victory books their spot in the Champions League round of 16, where they will await the draw and potentially face elite opponents like Manchester City or Sporting Lisbon. Benfica’s UCL journey concludes at this playoff phase, prompting reflections on tactical and roster strategies for future continental campaigns.

Disclaimer : This article and the accompanying featured image are created for editorial and informational purposes only. Match details, statistics, and competition context are based on publicly available reports at the time of publication. Readers are advised to refer to official UEFA and club communications for confirmed records, disciplinary updates, and tournament developments. The featured image is a conceptual sports graphic designed for illustrative use. It is not an official UEFA, Real Madrid CF, or SL Benfica publication and is not affiliated with or endorsed by any club, governing body, sponsor, or player. All team names, player names, competition titles, and related trademarks remain the property of their respective owners.