Benfica Stun Real Madrid 4-2 in Champions League Thriller

 In one of the most dramatic matches of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League league phase finale, SL Benfica produced a stunning 4-2 victory over Real Madrid at the Estádio da Luz on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. The result not only lit up the group but also reshaped the fate of both teams in Europe’s elite competition.


 

A Game of Two Halves

The contest began with Real Madrid taking an early lead through Kylian Mbappé, who headed home in the 30th minute after a dangerous cross from Raúl Asencio. The French star doubled his tally just before the hour mark to put the visitors in a strong position


However, Benfica responded with remarkable resilience. Andreas Schjelderup sparked the comeback, equalising just before half-time and later putting the home side ahead early in the second half. Between Schjelderup brace, Vangelis Pavlidis scored from the penalty spot, giving the hosts a 3-1 cushion. 

Goalkeeping Heroics and Historic Finish

Just when it seemed Real Madrid might snatch a point after Mbappé’s second and a sustained fight-back, the match sprung one final twist. In the 98th minute, Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin ventured forward for a late set-piece and powered a dramatic header into the net — sending the stadium into delirium and sealing the 4-2 win


Red Cards and Real Madrid’s Struggles

The closing stages also saw Real Madrid reduced to nine men, with both Raúl Asencio and Rodrygo receiving late red cards — compounding the visitors’ woes. Despite dominating possession and creating chances throughout, Los Blancos struggled to keep up defensively against a relentless Benfica performance.

What This Means Going Forward

Benfica’s dramatic victory ensures they remain in the Champions League — albeit via the play-off route — giving manager José Mourinho a memorable return against his former club. Real Madrid will head into February’s knockout play-offs aiming to recover from this setback and salvage their season in Europe.

Final Scoreline

Benfica 4 — 2 Real Madrid
Goals:

  • Benfica — Schjelderup (36′, 54′), Pavlidis (45+5′ pen), Trubin (90+8′)

  • Real Madrid — Mbappé (30′, 58′) 






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