Benfica Defeats Real Madrid 4-2: Trubin Scores, Mourinho’s Team Forces Play-offs
In a thrilling Champions League encounter, Benfica triumphed over Real Madrid with a score of 4-2, thanks to an extraordinary stoppage-time goal from goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin. This victory propelled José Mourinho’s team into the play-offs while relegating his former club, Real Madrid, to the additional knockout stage.
Key Events of the Match
- Location: Estadio da Luz, Lisbon
- Final score: Benfica 4, Real Madrid 2
- Notable goals:
- Kylian Mbappé scored for Real Madrid in the 30th minute, marking his 12th goal in this league phase.
- Andreas Schjelderup equalized for Benfica in the 36th minute.
- Aurelien Tchouameni conceded a penalty for a foul on Nicolas Otamendi, which Vangelis Pavlidis converted before halftime.
- Schjelderup scored again for Benfica in the 54th minute.
- Mbappé pulled one back in the 58th minute from an assist by Arda Güler.
- In the dying moments, Trubin scored with a header from a free-kick, sealing the win for Benfica.
Match Highlights
The match started with Benfica dominating possession and pressure. An initial overturned penalty for Real Madrid in the 16th minute set a frantic tone. Benfica showed resilience, countering Madrid’s lead after Mbappé’s opener with equal opportunities and creativity.
Despite their struggle in the first half, the home side kept pressing. After equalizing, they gained confidence, culminating in a pivotal penalty decision that allowed Pavlidis to score just before the halftime whistle. In the second half, Benfica expanded their lead but faced a spirited response from Madrid, particularly through Mbappé.
Late in the match, with both teams vying for advancement, Trubin’s unexpected goal not only clinched the victory but also demonstrated the unpredictability of football. This goal led to wild celebrations as Benfica secured their place in the upcoming play-offs, dramatically reshaping the tournament’s narrative.
Implications of the Result
With this defeat, Real Madrid faces the unwanted challenge of competing in the play-offs. The match also highlighted the pressures and stakes of high-level European football, leaving fans and analysts alike contemplating the implications for both clubs moving forward.
What’s Next?
The draw for the February play-offs will take place on January 30, providing teams that placed from ninth to 24th another chance at advancement. Benfica will aim to build on this victory as they prepare for their next challenges.
Football enthusiasts can catch all future updates and in-depth analysis at Filmogaz.com.