Champions League 2026-2026: Benfica-Real Madrid, the likely lineups

After the sensational 4-2 win last Jan. 28, decided in the 98th minute by Ukrainian goalkeeper Trubin and earning the Portuguese access to the playoffs in extremis, the fate of Benfica and Real Madrid cross paths again in the Champions League, in the match valid for the first leg of the play-offs. This time the round of 16 is up for grabs. Kickoff at 9 p.m. at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon.

The Lusitanians arrive in confidence to this match after the feat on the last day of the round. Jose Mourinho will entrust the goal to the’hero of the last match Trubin, protected by the Araujo-Otamendi pair, with Dedic and the’former Roma Dahl as full-backs. The midfield dike formed by Barreiro and Aursnes, while Prestianni, Rafa Silva and Schjelderup will act in the three-quarter to support Pavlidis’s only point.

The Blancos seek revenge after the bitter defeat of the last previous one. Arbeloa’s team comes to this match motivated, fresh leaders in La Liga after Barcelona’s misstep in Girona. The Spanish coach will have to cope with some major defections: Rodrygo and Asencio will be out due to disqualification, Bellingham and Militao due to flexor problems. Defending the goal will be Courtois, heading the defense will be Rudiger with Huijsen. Valverde and Camavinga will be in midfield on the flanks, while Vinicius will partner Mbappé in attack.

Probable lineups

Benfica (4-2-3-1): Trubin; Dedic, Araujo, Otamendi, Dahl; Barreiro, Aursnes; Prestianni, Rafa Silva, Schjelderup; Pavlidis. All. Mourinho.

Real Madrid (4-4-2): Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Rudiger, Huijsen, Carreras; Valverde, Güler, Tchouameni, Camavinga; Vinicius, Mbappé. All. Arbeloa.