Lisbon – Real Madrid and Benfica played to a 2-2 draw in a Champions League Group D match on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at the Estádio da Luz. Whereas the result denied Real Madrid a definitive group victory, they remain qualified for the next stage of the competition. The match saw both sides demonstrate attacking intent, with Vinicius Junior and Rafa Silva proving pivotal for their respective teams.
The draw keeps Real Madrid at the top of Group D, but leaves Benfica needing a positive result in their final match to secure qualification alongside the Spanish giants. The match was notable for the absence of Jose Mourinho from the Benfica touchline, though the reasons for his absence were not immediately clear. [1]
Lineups and Key Performances
Real Madrid fielded a strong starting eleven, led by manager A. Arbeloa, featuring a 4-3-3 formation. Key players included Courtois in goal, a midfield trio of Tchouaméni, Valverde, and Güler, and an attacking line spearheaded by Vinicius Junior. Benfica, under the guidance of manager J. Mourinho, opted for a 4-2-3-1 setup, with Trubin in goal and Rafa Silva leading the attack.
The full lineups were as follows:
Real Madrid (4-3-3): Courtois; Camavinga, Rüdiger, Alexander-Arnold, Carreras; Tchouaméni, Valverde, Güler; Vinicius Junior, Garcia, Asencio.
Benfica (4-2-3-1): Trubin; Dedic, Otamendi, Ríos, Dahl; Aursnes, Barreiro; Rafa Silva, Schjelderup, Pavlidis; Tomas.
Match Recap
The match began with both teams showing early attacking ambition. Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior proved a constant threat, while Benfica’s Rafa Silva orchestrated several promising moves. The first half saw a flurry of chances, but neither side could break the deadlock.
The second half continued at a brisk pace. Benfica took the lead through Rafa Silva, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from Real Madrid. However, Real Madrid responded quickly, with Vinicius Junior leveling the score. The game then saw a period of intense back-and-forth action, with both teams creating opportunities. Benfica regained the lead, only for Real Madrid to equalize once more, securing the 2-2 draw. [4]
Mourinho’s Return to the Champions League
This Champions League fixture marked a return for Jose Mourinho to the competition with Benfica. His previous tenure at Real Madrid, described as “violent” by some accounts, saw both success and controversy. [2] Mourinho’s time at Real Madrid was characterized by a strong focus on tactical discipline and a sometimes-contentious relationship with the media. [3]
What’s Next
Real Madrid’s qualification for the next round is secured, but they will aim to finish top of Group D in their final match. Benfica, meanwhile, will need to secure a positive result in their remaining fixture to join them in the knockout stages. The outcome of their final match will determine Benfica’s fate in the Champions League this season.
The Champions League continues to deliver compelling matchups, and the battle for qualification remains fierce. Fans can expect further drama and excitement as the competition progresses.
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