Real Madrid vs Benfica: A Champions League Night That Delivered

When Real Madrid vs Benfica appears on the Champions League schedule, history and expectation collide. This wasn’t just another European night — it was a tactical chess match, a showcase of individual brilliance, and a reminder of why the UEFA Champions League remains football’s grandest stage.

With a 2–1 victory on the night and a 3–1 aggregate score, Real Madrid once again demonstrated their elite European mentality. Meanwhile, Benfica proved they can compete toe-to-toe with Europe’s giants.

In this in-depth breakdown, we’ll cover:

• Full tactical analysis

• Real Madrid vs Benfica lineups

• Mbappé’s influence on Madrid’s structure

• Rafa Silva’s performance review

• Tchouaméni’s reaction and leadership

• Detailed statistical comparison table

• Where to watch Champions League matches

• What this result means for both clubs

This article is written in a natural, human tone and structured to build authority and trust — perfect for new websites aiming for long-term organic growth.

Match Summary: Real Madrid 2–1 Benfica (3–1 Aggregate)

Real Madrid controlled the tempo early, using patient buildup and width to stretch Benfica’s compact defensive block.

Goalscorers & Key Moments

• ⚽ Vinícius Jr – Clinical finish inside the box

• ⚽ Madrid second goal – Result of sustained pressing

• ⚽ Rafa Silva – Smart transitional finish for Benfica

The tie was competitive, but Madrid’s experience made the difference in decisive moments.

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Real Madrid vs Benfica Lineups

Here’s a structured look at how both sides approached the game tactically.

Real Madrid Starting XI

• GK: Courtois

• DEF: Carvajal, Rüdiger, Alaba, Mendy

• MID: Tchouaméni, Camavinga, Bellingham

• ATT: Vinícius Jr, Rodrygo, Mbappé

Benfica Starting XI

• GK: Trubin

• DEF: Bah, António Silva, Otamendi, Aursnes

• MID: João Neves, Florentino Luís

• ATT: Rafa Silva, Di María, Tengstedt

Benfica set up in a flexible 4-2-3-1, while Madrid alternated between 4-3-3 and 4-4-2 in defensive phases.

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Tactical Breakdown: Why Real Madrid Won

1. Midfield Control – Tchouaméni’s Authority

Aurelien Tchouameni delivered a composed, disciplined performance. His positional awareness cut off Benfica’s counter-attacks before they could develop.

Key contributions:

• 90%+ pass accuracy

• Multiple ball recoveries

• Shielded the defense during transitions

His post-match comments emphasizing unity and anti-racism resonated beyond football, strengthening Madrid’s collective identity.

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2. Vinícius Jr: The Difference Maker

Vinicius Junior was electric. Direct dribbling, pace, and composure under pressure gave Madrid the attacking edge.

He:

• Completed multiple successful take-ons

• Drew defenders out of shape

• Delivered a decisive goal

Benfica struggled to contain him without doubling up — which opened space elsewhere.

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3. Mbappé’s Structural Impact

Kylian Mbappe may not have dominated the scoresheet, but his off-ball movement transformed Madrid’s attacking dynamics.

His diagonal runs:

• Created channels for Bellingham

• Pulled Benfica’s defensive line deeper

• Increased space between defensive and midfield lines

Even without scoring, Mbappé’s gravity changes games.

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Benfica’s Fight: Rafa Silva’s Response

Rafa Silva was Benfica’s standout performer.

He:

• Exploited gaps on the counter

• Timed his run perfectly for the goal

• Pressed aggressively

Despite elimination, Benfica’s performance showed tactical maturity and resilience.

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Statistical Comparison Table

What The Stats Tell Us

• Madrid dominated territory

• Benfica were efficient in transition

• Defensive organization kept the game competitive

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Real Madrid CF vs Benfica FC – Historical Comparison

Real Madrid CF are synonymous with Champions League success.

Benfica FC remain one of Portugal’s most decorated sides with deep European roots.

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Where to Watch Champions League Matches

If you’re wondering where to watch Champions League, availability depends on your country:

• UK: TNT Sports

• USA: Paramount+

• India: Sony Sports Network

• Official streaming via UEFA partners

Always check official broadcasters for accurate scheduling.

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Key Sub Comparisons

Mbappé vs Rafa Silva

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Tchouaméni vs João Neves

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What This Result Means

For Real Madrid

• Momentum heading into next round

• Defensive structure improving

• Mbappé integration progressing

For Benfica

• Valuable European experience

• Youth development on display

• Tactical system validated

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Champions League Context

UEFA Champions League nights define legacies.

Real Madrid thrive in this competition because they combine:

• Tactical adaptability

• Big-match mentality

• Squad depth

• Individual brilliance

Benfica continue building toward reclaiming continental prominence.

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Expert Insight: Why Madrid’s Mentality Matters

In knockout football, the margins are small. Madrid’s calm under pressure isn’t accidental — it’s cultural.

They:

• Manage tempo intelligently

• Avoid emotional overreaction

• Strike decisively

That’s the difference between contenders and serial winners.

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Final Verdict: Real Madrid vs Benfica

This clash delivered everything expected at Champions League level:

• High technical quality

• Tactical depth

• Individual brilliance

• Emotional intensity

Real Madrid move forward stronger. Benfica exit with pride.

If this matchup taught us anything, it’s that European football remains unpredictable — but experience still rules decisive moments.

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