Real Madrid carry a narrow advantage into Wednesday night’s decisive Champions League knockout playoff second leg against Benfica at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
Los Blancos edged the first leg 1-0 in Lisbon, with Vinícius Júnior scoring the only goal of the contest. However, the match was overshadowed by serious controversy, and the fallout continues to shape the narrative heading into the return fixture.
Tension lingers after first-leg controversy
The initial encounter was defined as much by off-field developments as by tactical execution. Shortly after breaking the deadlock, Vinícius alleged racial abuse from Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni, prompting a lengthy stoppage. UEFA’s ongoing investigation has kept tensions elevated, and the psychological management of key players will be critical in Madrid.Head coach Álvaro Arbeloa faces a delicate balancing act. While ensuring Vinícius is mentally prepared, the expectation remains that the Brazilian will start. His recent form demands inclusion, and he will be intent on making a decisive impact in front of a home crowd.
Real Madrid seeking response after domestic setback
Madrid approach the game off the back of a 2-1 La Liga defeat to Osasuna, a result that dented momentum and underlined lingering inconsistencies. Despite sitting second in the domestic table, performances have fluctuated, particularly in defensive transitions.Historically, Real Madrid thrive in this competition, especially when protecting a first-leg lead. They have progressed in 22 of their last 23 European ties after winning the opening match, a statistic that reinforces their status as favourites.
Should they advance, a last-16 clash with either Sporting CP or Manchester City awaits, raising the stakes considerably.
Benfica’s uphill battle in Spain
Benfica responded to first-leg disappointment with a convincing 3-0 domestic victory, but their task at the Bernabéu remains formidable. Head coach José Mourinho will not be present on the touchline due to suspension, depriving the Eagles of their experienced in-game tactician.The Portuguese side boast a historically competitive record against Madrid, including their famous 5-3 triumph in the 1962 European Cup final. Yet recent trends are less encouraging. Benfica have struggled against Spanish opposition, losing six of their last eight such fixtures, and they have managed just two wins in 14 away matches in Spain.
While they have won eight of their last 11 two-legged European ties overall, overturning a deficit at the Bernabéu represents a markedly higher degree of difficulty.
Team news and tactical outlook
Real Madrid’s injury list complicates selection. Jude Bellingham, Éder Militão and Dani Ceballos are unavailable, while Kylian Mbappé is a significant doubt with a knee issue. Rodrygo is suspended, further narrowing attacking options.In midfield, the energy of Federico Valverde and the creativity of Arda Güler will be essential in controlling tempo. If Mbappé fails to recover, Gonzalo García may partner Vinícius in a two-man forward line.
Benfica are without Prestianni due to suspension, while João Veloso remains sidelined through injury. Much of their attacking threat will revolve around Vangelis Pavlidis, who has enjoyed a prolific campaign with 28 goals in all competitions. Support from wide areas, potentially via Dodi Lukebakio and Rafa Silva, will be vital if the visitors are to stretch Madrid’s back line.
Expert Prediction
Real Madrid 2-1 Benfica
