Mbappé again — Real Madrid are closing in

Stunning goal by Benfica, taking advantage of Real Madrid’s defensive disaster and Asencio’s mistake

The second half begins

Penalty for Benfica and they make it 2–1

Benfica equalize after a clear Real Madrid mistake

Real Madrid goal — Mbappé shows up as usual

The penalty is taken away from Benfica after a VAR review

The match begins

The lineups

The UEFA Champions League 2025–26 reaches Matchday 8 with one of the most attractive fixtures of the league phase, as Benfica host Real Madrid at Lisbon’s iconic Estádio da Luz. This clash is crucial for the Spanish giants, who are looking to secure a place among the top eight and avoid the playoff round, while the Portuguese side must win to keep their European hopes alive.

Benfica with everything on the line

Benfica enter this match knowing that victory is essential. After a difficult start to their Champions League campaign, the Portuguese club have shown some signs of recovery, but they remain outside the qualification places and need a strong result against a heavyweight opponent to stay in contention for the next round.

The Lisbon side, coached by José Mourinho, have displayed character in several moments of the tournament, but defeats in key matches have left their European journey hanging by a thread. The pressure is high, not only because of the standings, but also because of the desire to deliver a memorable performance in one of Europe’s most storied stadiums.

At home, Benfica will look to draw energy from their supporters and their continental history to make life difficult for the visitors and add another chapter to their rich European legacy.

Real Madrid aiming for European certainty

On the other side, Real Madrid arrive in Lisbon with a clear objective: a win would secure direct qualification to the round of 16 and allow them to bypass the playoff stage, strengthening their position in Europe’s premier club competition. The Spanish giants have put together a run of consecutive victories and regained their attacking rhythm, giving them a solid foundation for this decisive encounter.

Under head coach Álvaro Arbeloa, Real Madrid have shown unity and determination, blending experience with youthful talent to good effect. Their creative tempo going forward and their ability to control the flow of the match will be key against a rival that will not back down.

The Merengues know that a positive result away from home would allow them to approach the final stretch of the league phase with greater confidence and focus on bigger European ambitions.

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