Trubin’s Last-Minute Heroics Propel Benfica into Champions League Playoffs

omidbasir- In a thrilling finale, Ukrainian goalkeeper Trubin ignited exuberant celebrations with a stunning last-minute goal, leading Benfica to a dramatic victory over Spanish giants Real Madrid. This win secured Benfica’s place in the Champions League play-off round, finishing 24th to clinch the final spot that guarantees advancement to the knockout stage.

Reflecting on his unusual transformation from goalkeeper to goal-scorer, Trubin remarked, “Since I started playing football at the age of six, I have dedicated myself to preventing goals. Now, due to one remarkable moment, many people recognize me for scoring a goal.”

He continues to be amazed by the public’s reaction. “It’s still surreal for me,” he expressed. “Sometimes, I can hardly believe it happened. Today, after training, a fan approached me for a photo and said, ‘Good goal.’ That has never happened before. That moment will forever remain with me.”

The tension escalated as neither the players nor manager Jose Mourinho initially realized another goal was necessary. Mourinho had implemented a technology ban in the dugout and, believing a 3-2 lead sufficed, directed Trubin to waste time. It was only when the crowd and club president Rui Costa began urging for clarity that the message reached the team.

“We were ahead, so I didn’t feel the need to hurry,” Trubin chuckled. “I had no idea why the fans were shouting or why some teammates were signaling to me—‘one, one, one’—I simply didn’t understand. However, when we earned the free kick, Mister [Mourinho] signaled for me to move forward. That’s when I realized, ‘Do we need one more goal?’

Upon receiving the signal, Trubin surged forward for a last-second free kick. Teammate Fredrik Aursnes delivered a cross that Trubin described as “perfect,” allowing him to leap above the Madrid defense. “When you’re in the game, you act instinctively. Everything happened so quickly. Perhaps because the cross was so precise, or maybe because it was meant to happen, it felt natural to me, something that came easily,” he stated. “In that moment, you have to take risks and invest everything. If I need to score, I must go all in, to bring joy to our fans and elevate Benfica. I just ran, and then I moved my head as if I were a striker. It was exhilarating.”

Following this “miracle,” one of the most significant moments for Trubin came from his counterpart. Despite the disappointment of the defeat, Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois approached Trubin to extend his congratulations. This gesture left a profound impression on the 24-year-old.

“I have great respect for all goalkeepers, especially Courtois, but after this encounter, he holds an even more special place in my heart,” Trubin remarked. “After enduring a tough loss, he approached me with a smile to offer congratulations. That demonstrated to me that he is not only one of the best on the pitch but also off it. It serves as a commendable example for the younger generation. Even after a challenging defeat, respect can be shown.”

Coincidentally, the draw for the Champions League playoffs has matched Benfica against Real Madrid once more. Mourinho, known for his penchant for narrative, has already initiated psychological tactics, suggesting that his former side will seek revenge. “They are wounded. And a wounded king is dangerous,” Mourinho cautioned ahead of the first leg, though he was quick to temper expectations for another goal-scoring appearance from Trubin, joking, “Trubin won’t be attacking at the Luz stadium.”

For Trubin, this rematch presents an opportunity to prove that Benfica’s “miracle” was no mere coincidence. Despite the turbulent nature of their season, which saw them fall ten points behind in the league before this European resurgence, optimism remains high. “We could have faced either Inter or Real. I don’t mind who we play, but because it’s Real, it will be more emotional given the last match,” Trubin concluded.