CL Preview: The Special One vs. Los Blancos

It’s tempting to focus almost entirely on José Mourinho facing former club Real Madrid at the Estádio da Luz. While “The Special One” has collected league titles in four different countries along with CL, EL and ECL trophies, it is ultimately the 22 players on the pitch who will decide this tie. The Portuguese side have already beaten the Spanish capital club earlier in the competition — something that gives As Águias supporters hope of progressing to the CL round of 16.

Match Analysis

Benfica only secured their playoff place on the final matchday of the league phase. Three wins and five defeats point to inconsistency, although recent performances have improved with several encouraging results. At home, Mourinho’s men have generally been strong, which could prove crucial against the Spanish heavyweights.

Los Blancos arrive in Lisbon full of confidence. They currently top La Liga, having lost just two of 24 league matches. Six of their last seven games have ended in victory (6-0-1), with the only blemish being the 4–2 defeat to Benfica earlier in the tournament.

Real Madrid are scoring freely, although defensive lapses have occasionally been an issue. To be fair, they finished that earlier meeting with two players sent off — albeit deep into stoppage time.

Still, Real Madrid’s CL pedigree means they are never easily written off, particularly in knockout football. Both teams tend to score regularly, but neither defence has been entirely watertight.

Team News

Benfica have several fitness concerns. Alexander Bah has returned to training after a long injury layoff but may not be ready yet. Samuel Soares is doubtful and Richard Rios is unlikely to feature following a shoulder injury.

For Real Madrid, Jude Bellingham is sidelined with a hamstring injury, Rodrygo is suspended, and Raul Asencio is also unavailable. Kylian Mbappé, however, is expected back after injury, providing a major boost in attack.

Odds and Tips

Benfica have home advantage and confidence from their previous win over Real Madrid, but the Spaniards’ experience, attacking quality and CL pedigree still make them natural favourites.

Tip: Slight edge to Real Madrid.

A tight contest with goals at both ends looks likely — for example, a 1–2 away win at 7.80.

Please note that the odds might have changed since the writing and/or publication of this article.
Last updated: 16.02.26