Vinicius Junior's late winner secured Real Madrid a narrow 2-1 UEFA Champions League victory over a resilient Benfica side at the Bernabéu.
Real Madrid secured a vital 2-1 victory over Benfica at the Bernabéu on February 25, 2026. Vinicius Junior's late strike proved decisive in a hard-fought UEFA Champions League encounter.
Real Madrid entered the match in strong form, topping their group with 12 points from five games. Benfica, however, desperately needed a turnaround in their European campaign. This continental clash held significant weight.
The match exploded into life early. Benfica stunned the home crowd in the 14th minute. Rafa Silva slotted home, giving the visitors a surprising lead.
Real Madrid responded almost immediately. Just two minutes later, in the 16th minute, Aurélien Tchouaméni powered in an equaliser. Federico Valverde provided the assist, restoring parity swiftly.
Real Madrid thought they had taken the lead in the 32nd minute through Arda Güler. However, VAR disallowed the goal for offside, keeping the score level. Benfica's R. Rios then received a yellow card for tripping in the 35th minute.
At half-time, the score remained finely poised at 1-1. Real Madrid needed to break down Benfica's resilient defence. Benfica aimed to maintain their shape and threaten on the counter. The second half promised more intensity.
The second half began with fierce battling. Nicolás Otamendi of Benfica was booked in the 51st minute. Real Madrid's R. Asencio then received a yellow card in the 57th minute for a similar foul.
As the game wore on, Real Madrid pressed for a winner. Coach Carlo Ancelotti made tactical changes in the 77th minute. David Alaba replaced R. Asencio and F. Mastantuono came on for Eduardo Camavinga, seeking fresh impetus.
The decisive moment arrived in the 80th minute. Vinicius Junior, assisted again by Federico Valverde, expertly found the net. His goal propelled Real Madrid ahead 2-1, igniting celebrations across the Bernabéu.
Substitutions continued as both teams managed the final stages. Real Madrid brought on G. Garcia and C. Palacios in the 84th minute. Benfica countered with A. Schjelderup and F. Aursnes in the 85th minute. C. Palacios received a yellow card late in stoppage time for holding.
Real Madrid dominated possession with 56%, registering 14 total shots, with 4 on target. Their expected goals (xG) stood at 1.11. Benfica, with 44% possession, managed 12 total shots and an impressive xG of 1.82. Thibaut Courtois made 4 crucial saves for the home side.
This hard-fought 2-1 victory further solidifies Real Madrid's strong position in the UEFA Champions League group stage. Benfica's valiant effort ultimately yielded no points, leaving them with an uphill battle.
