In the demanding landscape of the UEFA Champions League knockout phase, Real Madrid once again demonstrated their enduring pedigree by overcoming Benfica in the 2025/26 playoff round. On February 25, 2026, at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu, Carlo Ancelotti’s side secured a 2-1 second-leg victory, advancing 3-1 on aggregate to reach the last 16 for another season. For online readers following every twist in the Real Madrid Champions League journey, this hard-fought result against a spirited Portuguese opponent underscored both vulnerability and quality under pressure.
The tie began with Real Madrid holding a slender 1-0 advantage from the first leg on February 17, 2026, when Vinícius Júnior netted the only goal in Lisbon. Benfica, managed by João Tralhão in the absence of the suspended José Mourinho, arrived in Madrid determined to overturn the deficit. Yet, despite an encouraging start, the visitors could not prevent Real Madrid from progressing to the next stage of Europe’s premier club competition.
Early Scare and Swift Response Define the Night
The game exploded into life inside the opening 16 minutes. Benfica struck first in the 14th minute when Rafa Silva capitalised on a defensive mix-up. After Thibaut Courtois parried a clearance attempt from Raúl Asencio, the Portuguese forward bundled the loose ball home from close range. For a brief moment, the aggregate score was level, and the Bernabéu fell quiet.
However, Real Madrid responded almost immediately. Just two minutes later, in the 16th minute, Aurélien Tchouaméni restored the lead with a superb curling strike from the edge of the penalty area. Federico Valverde provided the assist with a precise pass, allowing the French midfielder to sweep the ball into the far corner for his first Champions League goal. This quick equaliser shifted momentum decisively, calming the home crowd and re-establishing the aggregate advantage at 2-1.
Throughout the first half, Benfica created threats, hitting the woodwork once and forcing Courtois into several important saves. Real Madrid, meanwhile, had a goal from Gonzalo García disallowed for offside. The hosts also lost defender Raúl Asencio to injury after an accidental collision with Eduardo Camavinga; he was stretchered off with concerns over a neck issue, forcing further adjustments.
Vinícius Júnior Delivers the Decisive Moment
As the second half progressed, the contest remained tense. Benfica continued to press, yet Real Madrid’s defensive organisation held firm. The decisive breakthrough arrived in the 80th minute when Vinícius Júnior produced a moment of clinical quality. After Valverde won possession in midfield and threaded a pass forward, the Brazilian forward surged past Nicolás Otamendi and drove a low, side-footed shot past goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin into the far corner.
This goal, Vinícius Júnior’s second of the tie, effectively ended Benfica’s hopes. The 25-year-old, who has been central to Real Madrid’s attacking output throughout the 2025/26 Champions League campaign, celebrated in characteristic style with a joyful dance at the corner flag. His performance, coming amid heightened attention following an alleged racial abuse incident involving Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni in the first leg (which led to Prestianni’s provisional suspension), highlighted his resilience and importance to the team.
Head coach Álvaro Arbeloa praised the forward’s contribution post-match, noting his growing influence in the absence of Kylian Mbappé, who missed the fixture through a knee injury. “He deserves it, he’s in great form,” Arbeloa remarked, emphasising how Vinícius Júnior stepped up when needed most.
Key Match Statistics: Real Madrid vs Benfica, February 25, 2026
| Statistic | Real Madrid | Benfica |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score (2nd Leg) | 2 | 1 |
| Aggregate Score | 3 | 1 |
| Goals | Tchouaméni (16′), Vinícius Júnior (80′) | Rafa Silva (14′) |
| Possession | 55.8% | 44.2% |
| Shots (on target) | 14 (4) | 12 (4) |
| xG | 1.11 | 1.98 |
| Corners | 4 | 7 |
| Yellow Cards | 2 | 2 |
These figures illustrate Benfica’s threat on the night (higher xG) yet Real Madrid’s efficiency in converting key moments.
Tactical Discipline and Squad Depth Shine Through
Despite missing several key players, including Mbappé, Real Madrid adapted effectively. Trent Alexander-Arnold earned high praise for his performance at right-back, while Valverde’s vision proved instrumental with two assists. Courtois remained solid between the posts, making four saves to preserve the lead during Benfica’s late push.
Benfica, to their credit, showed fight and organisation, with 4,000 travelling fans creating a lively atmosphere. However, they could not find a second goal to force extra time. Acting manager João Tralhão expressed frustration afterward, acknowledging the fine margins but praising his side’s effort.
This Real Madrid Champions League progression marks another successful navigation of the new knockout playoff format. The 15-time European champions have now advanced from 22 of their last 23 knockout ties when leading after the first leg, a statistic that reflects their experience at this level.
Looking Ahead to the Last 16
With the playoff round complete, Real Madrid now await Friday’s draw, where they could face familiar foes Manchester City or Portuguese rivals Sporting CP. The result keeps their hopes alive for a record-extending 16th Champions League title in 2025/26.
For fans passionate about Real Madrid Champions League campaigns, the victory over Benfica offered reassurance amid injuries and early defensive lapses. Vinícius Júnior’s winner not only secured qualification but also reinforced his status as one of the competition’s standout performers. As the competition intensifies, Real Madrid’s blend of tactical adaptability, squad depth, and star quality positions them strongly for the challenges ahead.
In summary, the 2-1 triumph at the Bernabéu exemplified resilience and quality. From Tchouaméni’s swift equaliser to Vinícius Júnior’s late strike, Real Madrid overcame a difficult evening to book their place in the last 16. This success adds another chapter to their storied European history while setting the stage for even greater tests in the knockout stages. Supporters can look forward to more memorable nights as the 2025/26 Champions League season reaches its business end.
