Benfica vs. Real Madrid: Champions League Playoff First Leg Preview

Less than three weeks after Benfica secured a stunning victory over Real Madrid in the league phase, the two sides are set to clash once more in the first leg of the Champions League knockout phase playoffs on Tuesday evening. What was anticipated as a straightforward win for Real Madrid turned into a dramatic upset at the Estádio da Luz in January, with a 4-2 defeat and a reduced chance of progressing in the competition.

Recent History and Context

Real Madrid started the day well-positioned to finish in the top eight and secure a direct spot in the round of 16. However, Benfica’s improbable win, compounded by a red card for Raúl Asencio and a late goal from goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin, propelled them into the playoff phase while leaving Los Blancos to fight for a place in the last 16. This rematch presents a challenging opportunity for Benfica to build on their success and a chance for Real Madrid to avenge their earlier defeat.

Match Details

• Location: Lisbon, Portugal
• Stadium: Estádio da Luz
• Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2026
• Kick-off Time: 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT / 8 p.m. GMT

Head-to-Head Record (Last Five Games)

• Benfica: 3 wins
• Real Madrid: 1 win
• Draws: 0
• Last meeting: Benfica 4–2 Real Madrid (January 28, 2026) – Champions League

Current Form (All Competitions)

• Benfica: WWDWW
• Real Madrid: WWWLW

Recent results include:

• Santa Clara 1–2 Benfica
• Real Madrid 4–1 Real Sociedad
• Benfica 2–1 Alverca
• Valencia 0–2 Real Madrid
• Tondela 0–0 Benfica
• Real Madrid 2–1 Rayo Vallecano
• Benfica 4–2 Real Madrid
• Benfica 4–0 Estrela da Amadora
• Villarreal 0–2 Real Madrid

Team News

Benfica

Benfica’s injury situation is improving, with Alexander Bah and Richard Ríos returning to training. However, they are not expected to feature against Real Madrid. Samuel Soares and Joao Veloso are nearing recovery but are unlikely to be available. Fredrik Aursnes is ruled out with a muscle injury, with Enzo Barrenechea expected to take his place. The attack is likely to remain unchanged, led by Vangelis Pavlidis.

Benfica Predicted Lineup vs. Real Madrid (4-2-3-1): Trubin; Dedić, T.Araújo, Otamendi, Dahl; Barreiro, Barrenechea; Prestianni, Sudakov, Schjelderup; Pavlidis.

Real Madrid

Éder Militão remains sidelined with a hamstring injury. However, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Antonio Rüdiger have recovered from their respective injuries and are available. Jude Bellingham is still out with a hamstring injury. Real Madrid will be without the suspended Raúl Asencio and Rodrygo, both sent off in the final league phase match. Kylian Mbappé faces a late fitness test due to a knee problem, but is expected to start.

Real Madrid Predicted Lineup vs. Benfica (4-4-2): Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Rüdiger, Huijsen, Carreras; Valverde, Güler, Tchouaméni, Camavinga; Mbappé, Vinicius Junior.

Score Prediction

Considering the previous encounter, Benfica has demonstrated the ability to score against Real Madrid. While replicating a four-goal performance may be challenging, Real Madrid’s strengthened defense and recent form suggest they are capable of avenging their earlier defeat, particularly with Mbappé’s potential return.

Prediction: Benfica 1–2 Real Madrid