Real Madrid Beat Benfica 1–0 to Keep Round of 16 Hopes Alive

Europe-Asia, Sports

Spanish giants Real Madrid secured a crucial 1–0 victory over Benfica on Tuesday night in Lisbon, taking a valuable first-leg advantage in their UEFA Champions League knockout play-off. The high-intensity clash at Estadio da Luz drew over 66,000 fans, who witnessed Vinícius Júnior break the deadlock in the 50th minute with a superb strike from outside the box.

Real Madrid controlled possession with 56% and looked more composed in midfield, while Benfica struggled to convert their attacking opportunities into clear chances.

The match, however, was overshadowed by controversy. Vinícius Júnior alleged that he was subjected to racist abuse from Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni, prompting a 10-minute stoppage as the referee implemented UEFA’s anti-racism protocols. The incident cast a shadow over what was otherwise a fiercely contested encounter. Benfica’s manager, José Mourinho, was shown a red card after an outburst defending his player, leaving questions over whether UEFA will uphold or overturn the sanction.

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Real Madrid’s defence displayed discipline and resilience, repelling Benfica’s late pressure and ensuring the narrow lead was preserved. The Portuguese side had previously denied Los Blancos automatic qualification in the group stage, forcing them into this play-off. With the result, Real Madrid head into the second leg at Santiago Bernabéu on February 24–25, 2026, with momentum and a strong chance of progressing to the round of 16 in Europe’s elite competition.