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PUBLISHED ON: 23 FEB 2026, 05:23 AM
By Sports Live Hub (SLH) Football Desk | February 23, 2026
The UEFA Champions League knockout play-offs reach a pivotal moment tonight as Real Madrid host Benfica in the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu (kick-off: 8:00 PM IST), trailing 1-0 from the first leg in Lisbon. The tie is do-or-die for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, who must overturn the deficit to advance to the Round of 16. Adding layers of intrigue is Kylian Mbappé’s return from a precautionary rest, the reunion with former manager José Mourinho (now Benfica coach), and mounting pressure in La Liga where Real trail Barcelona by four points with a game in hand. This is more than a knockout match — it’s a defining night for Madrid’s season.
Benfica stunned Real Madrid in the first leg on February 17 at the Estádio da Luz, winning 1-0 thanks to Ángel Di María’s 68th-minute strike. Madrid dominated possession (62%) and created 18 shots but failed to convert, with Thibaut Courtois making several key saves to keep the deficit to one goal. Vinicius Jr faced alleged racist abuse from sections of the home crowd, prompting a UEFA investigation and widespread condemnation.
The result left Madrid vulnerable heading into the return leg. Ancelotti admitted post-match: “We lacked the final touch. We must be more clinical at home.” Benfica’s disciplined defence, led by Nicolás Otamendi and António Silva, frustrated Madrid’s attack, while their counter-attacks exposed gaps.
Read More: Benfica vs Real Madrid UCL Play-off: Mbappé’s Return Lights Up Lisbon – Live Stream in Bangladesh
Kylian Mbappé’s absence from the first leg (rested after a minor knock) was a talking point, but the French superstar is confirmed fit and starting tonight. In the 2025/26 season, Mbappé has scored 22 goals and provided 11 assists in 28 appearances across all competitions, including 8 goals in the Champions League group phase. His pace, finishing, and ability to unlock tight defences make him the biggest threat to Benfica.
Ancelotti is expected to deploy a 4-3-3 with Mbappé on the left, Vinicius Jr on the right, and Rodrygo or Endrick through the middle. The midfield trio of Valverde, Tchouaméni, and Camavinga will aim to dominate possession and supply the front three. Madrid’s home record in the Champions League is formidable: 14 wins in their last 15 knockout home legs.
José Mourinho, once Real Madrid’s coach (2010–2013), returns to the Bernabéu as Benfica boss. His tenure at Madrid ended acrimoniously, and he has a 3-2-1 record against his former club in European competition. Mourinho’s Benfica are compact, with a back five and two holding midfielders (Barreiro and Barrenechea), designed to frustrate and hit on the counter.
Madrid will need to break down this low block. Ancelotti may push full-backs Carvajal and Mendy higher, while using Mbappé and Vinicius to stretch the pitch. Set-pieces could be decisive — Benfica scored from a corner in the first leg, and Madrid’s aerial threat (Rüdiger, Militao) will look to exploit Di María’s delivery.
Expert opinion: Gary Neville says, “Madrid must be patient but ruthless. Mourinho will sit deep — they need Mbappé at his best.” Jamie Carragher adds, “If Madrid score early, Benfica could collapse. But if it’s 0-0 at half-time, Mourinho’s plan is working.”
Real Madrid trails Barcelona by four points in La Liga with a game in hand. A Champions League exit would intensify scrutiny on Ancelotti, whose contract runs until 2026. A deep run is essential to maintain momentum in the domestic race, where Barcelona’s attacking fluency has been relentless.
X is buzzing with #RealMadrid and #UCLPlayoffs, with fans posting: “Mbappé back + Bernabéu atmosphere = comeback loading 🔥” and “Mourinho revenge game at the Bernabéu? This is cinema.”
A win tonight would restore confidence and keep Madrid in both competitions. An exit would raise questions about squad depth, finishing, and Ancelotti’s tactics. For Benfica, a draw or win would be a historic upset, boosting their domestic campaign and Mourinho’s legacy.
Don’t miss this must-win UCL second leg and all remaining Champions League and La Liga action live on Sports Live Hub (SLH) — your ultimate premium destination for global live sports streaming and expert analysis.
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Q: What time is Real Madrid vs Benfica second leg?
A: Kick-off at 8:00 PM IST (20:00 local time) at Santiago Bernabéu.
Q: What is the aggregate score?
A: Benfica lead 1-0 from the first leg (Di María goal).
Q: Is Mbappé starting?
A: Yes, confirmed fit and in the starting XI after rest.
Q: Where can I watch Real Madrid vs Benfica live in Bangladesh?
Q: What’s at stake for Ancelotti?
A: A win keeps Madrid in the UCL and eases La Liga pressure; an exit would intensify scrutiny on his tenure.
Disclaimer: The insights and narratives provided within this feature reflect the author’s exclusive analytical viewpoints. Readers are encouraged to assess thoughtfully, explore alternative perspectives, and derive their own strategic takeaways.
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