Lisbon – Real Madrid faces a challenging rematch against Benfica in the Champions League play-off round, following a surprising 4-2 defeat in Portugal three weeks ago. That loss, punctuated by a dramatic 98th-minute header from Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin, sent Benfica into the play-offs and knocked Real Madrid out of the top eight. The team now seeks to overturn the deficit and avoid another upset when they travel back to Da Luz.
The upcoming match sees several key changes to the Real Madrid lineup. Manager Carlo Ancelotti, referred to as Arbeloa in the source material, will be without several players due to suspension and injury, but welcomes the return of star forward Kylian Mbappé. The tactical approach will be a 4-4-2 formation, a decision confirmed by team officials.
Real Madrid will be without Asensio, who was sent off in the previous match against Benfica. Rodrygo likewise received a red card in Lisbon and is suspended for both legs of the play-off, along with a further two-match ban. Bellingham is also sidelined due to injury. However, the return of Rüdiger from a physical issue provides a boost to the defense, allowing him to partner with Huijsen at center-back. Trent Alexander-Arnold, who delivered a strong performance against Real Sociedad and Carreras will occupy the full-back positions, with Thibaut Courtois in goal.
The midfield will feature a familiar trio of Valverde, Tchouameni, and Camavinga, a setup that proved effective in recent matches against Real Sociedad, and Valencia. Güler will be positioned ahead of the midfield three, tasked with creating opportunities and linking up with the forwards. This formation is expected to remain in place until Bellingham returns from injury, at which point Ancelotti will reassess the team’s setup.
Mbappé Back in Attack Alongside Vinícius Júnior
Perhaps the most significant change to the lineup is the return of Kylian Mbappé, who was rested during the match against Real Sociedad. He will form an attacking partnership with Vinícius Júnior, pushing Gonzalo to the bench despite his goal in the previous match against Real Sociedad. This dynamic duo is expected to provide a significant threat to the Benfica defense.
The confirmed Real Madrid starting eleven is: Courtois; Trent, Rüdiger, Huijsen, Carreras; Valverde, Güler, Tchouameni, Camavinga; Mbappé and Vinícius.
Benfica’s Play-off Berth and Mourinho’s Strategy
Benfica secured their place in the play-offs with that stunning victory over Real Madrid, a result that highlighted their resilience and tactical flexibility. José Mourinho’s Benfica will be looking to capitalize on their home advantage and exploit any weaknesses in the Real Madrid defense. Recent reports indicate Mourinho has clarified rumors surrounding a potential exit clause for players, focusing instead on preparing for the intense duel against his former club. Mix Vale reported on these clarifications.
The first leg of the play-off will be a crucial test for both teams. Real Madrid will need to overcome the challenges posed by Benfica’s home advantage and Mourinho’s tactical acumen to secure a favorable result and advance in the Champions League. The return leg promises to be equally intense, with both sides vying for a spot in the competition’s knockout stages.
What comes next will depend on Real Madrid’s performance in this two-legged tie. A successful outcome will spot them progress in the Champions League, although a failure could have significant implications for their season.
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