Real Madrid Secures Narrow Victory Over Benfica in Controversial Clash

omidbasir- LISBON — Just three weeks after a memorable 4-2 defeat at the hands of Benfica, Real Madrid returned to the Estadio da Luz. However, this encounter bore little resemblance to the previous one in terms of atmosphere or outcome.

Gone were the dramatic late-game heroics, including a last-minute headed goal from a goalkeeper and the celebratory tears of Benfica manager José Mourinho. This time, Madrid emerged with a well-deserved 1-0 lead to carry into the second leg of the playoff at the Bernabéu.

Upon their return to Lisbon, Real Madrid appeared markedly different. “We witnessed a completely transformed Real Madrid,” remarked coach Álvaro Arbeloa. The team exhibited more composure and control compared to their earlier chaotic performance.

Having learned from their previous humbling defeat that relegated them from the Champions League’s elite, Madrid approached the match well-prepared.

However, the evening was not without its extreme highs and lows. This was epitomized by Vinícius Júnior’s spectacular goal in the 50th minute, which was followed by a 10-minute stoppage due to allegations of racial abuse from Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni. The referee invoked UEFA’s anti-racism protocol, casting a shadow over the remainder of the game.

Players responded strongly; Aurélien Tchouaméni stated, “This cannot happen,” while Kylian Mbappé asserted that Prestianni “did not deserve to play in the Champions League again.” Arbeloa mentioned that the team would have supported Vinícius had he chosen to leave the pitch in protest.

Mourinho’s night ended in frustration, as he found himself in the stands after receiving a red card for contesting a referee decision in the late stages. He later critiqued Vinícius’ goal celebration, a stark contrast to his earlier praise for his team’s performance during their earlier win.

Arbeloa, having learned from his predecessor, adjusted his strategy effectively. Madrid lined up in a compact 4-4-2 formation, with Eduardo Camavinga tasked with shielding left-back Álvaro Carreras and Federico Valverde providing similar support for Trent Alexander-Arnold on the right. Unlike their earlier encounter, there was no sign of Madrid underestimating their opponents.

In the lead-up to the match, Benfica attempted to evoke memories of their previous victory. As the stadium lights dimmed, a video replayed Anatoliy Trubin’s last-minute header and Mourinho’s emotional response. A massive banner of an eagle, the club’s symbol, was unveiled with the words: “Until the end.” They would need that fighting spirit to challenge Madrid, the reigning champions of Europe.

The home side started on a positive note, energizing the crowd. Yet, as the first half progressed, Madrid began to assert their dominance. Vinícius, Mbappé, and Arda Güler created chances, highlighted by Thibaut Courtois’ remarkable save from Fredrik Aursnes.

By halftime, it felt inevitable that a Madrid goal was forthcoming. When it did arrive, it came in spectacular fashion as Vinícius curled a shot into the top corner from the left wing.

His celebration, a dance by the corner flag, marked a significant moment in a challenging season for him, characterized by inconsistent form and stalled contract negotiations. This goal, his third consecutive in recent appearances, reaffirmed his status as one of the world’s most impactful players.

However, following the goal, the game’s tempo faltered, largely due to the events surrounding Vinícius. “Prior to the goal, it was a fantastic match,” Mourinho reflected. “After that, the game was effectively over.” His red card will prevent him from being on the sidelines for the return leg at the Bernabéu.

Real Madrid heads into that match as the favorites to advance to the last 16, their confidence bolstered beyond what the 1-0 scoreline suggests. Benfica’s earlier triumph now appears to be an unattainable feat.