Benfica Clashes with Real Madrid: Preview, Predictions, and Lineups
Benfica and Real Madrid are set to face each other once again, this time in the knockout phase of the UEFA Champions League. The first leg of this critical matchup will occur on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the Estádio da Luz in Lisbon, Portugal. The kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT / 8 p.m. GMT.
Recent Encounters
The two teams recently met in January, where Benfica delivered a stunning 4–2 victory over Real Madrid. This unexpected win shook the Spanish giants, who ended the match with nine men. The loss haunted Real Madrid and put their place in the last 16 in jeopardy. José Mourinho, the Benfica manager, is looking to capitalize on his squad’s recent success against the 15-time European champions.
Head-to-Head Record
- Benfica: 3 wins
- Real Madrid: 1 win
- Draws: 0
Current Form
Both teams are in varying forms leading up to this match:
| Team | Last Five Matches (All Competitions) |
|---|---|
| Benfica | WWDWW |
| Real Madrid | WWWLW |
Team News
Benfica
Benfica is slowly regaining players from injury. Fredrik Aursnes will not participate due to a muscle injury. The team expects Enzo Barrenechea to step in for him. Meanwhile, Alexander Bah and Richard Ríos have returned to training but are unlikely to play. The predicted lineup for Benfica is:
- Goalkeeper: Trubin
- Defenders: Dedić, T. Araújo, Otamendi, Dahl
- Midfielders: Barreiro, Barrenechea
- Forwards: Prestianni, Sudakov, Schjelderup, Pavlidis
Real Madrid
Real Madrid will miss Éder Militão due to a torn hamstring. However, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Antonio Rüdiger have recovered and are back in action. Jude Bellingham will not play because of his hamstring issue. Additionally, Raúl Asencio and Rodrygo are suspended. Kylian Mbappé may return after a knee problem but will undergo a fitness test. The anticipated lineup for Real Madrid includes:
- Goalkeeper: Courtois
- Defenders: Alexander-Arnold, Rüdiger, Huijsen, Carreras
- Midfielders: Valverde, Güler, Tchouaméni, Camavinga
- Forwards: Mbappé, Vinicius Junior
Match Prediction
Given Benfica’s recent firepower, another high-scoring game is possible. However, Real Madrid’s strengthened defense and recent form may tip the balance in their favor. A close match is expected, with the potential for Real Madrid to secure a narrow victory.
Prediction: Benfica 1–2 Real Madrid
Stay tuned to Filmogaz.com for the latest updates on the Champions League events and analysis.
