Benfica meet Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League play-off round tie tonight.
It’s an instant rematch for the two teams, following an unforgettable league phase game last month. Needing a late goal to snatch progress, Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin ventured forward to head home and send the Portuguese side into the knockout rounds.
Real Madrid had started the night in the top eight, but defeat in Lisbon has condemned them to the play-offs.
𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐄 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐀 𝐑𝐄𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇 ⚔️🔥
Three weeks after a dramatic victory and Trubin’s heroics, Benfica host Real Madrid again 🦅🏟️
Will Mourinho hurt his former love once again? 💔👻 Or will Mbappé & co take revenge? 😤⚡️
It’s time for the knockout-stage play-offs 🍿 pic.twitter.com/EbCH7k719g
— 433 (@433) February 17, 2026
Ahead of the clash, Benfica boss Jose Mourinho has warned his side to expect a ‘wounded’ Real Madrid side at The Estádio da Luz.
Benfica team news
Jose Mourinho must manage without Fredrik Aursnes for tonight’s tie, with the influential midfielder ruled out. Richard Rios has returned to training for Mourinho’s men but it’s unlikely the Colombian will be thrust straight into a game of this importance.
Elsewhere, Samuel Soares and Joao Veloso are doubts for the hosts. The fixture will also come too soon for Alexander Bah, who recently resumed training after a long ACL lay-off.
Benfica predicted lineup
Benfica predicted XI: Trubin; Dedic, Araujo, Otamendi, Dahl; Barreiro, Barrenechea; Prestianni, Sudakov, Schjelderup; Pavlidis.
What time is kick off?
Benfica vs Real Madrid will kick off in Lisbon at 8pm GMT.
How to watch Benfica vs Real Madrid
Viewers in the UK can watch the match on Amazon Prime Video, with coverage starting at 7pm.
Read – The five favourites for the Champions League as knockout stages begin
See more – Remembering every same-nation Champions League knockout tie
