The Digest:
Benfica, managed by José Mourinho, secured a dramatic 4–2 victory over Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League group phase, clinching the final qualification spot for the knockout playoff round. Goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin scored a 98th-minute header to seal the win, sending Benfica through on goal difference. Earlier, Kylian Mbappé netted twice for Madrid, while Andreas Schjelderup scored a brace and Vangelis Pavlidis converted a penalty for Benfica. The result condemned Real Madrid to a ninth-place finish, meaning they must now compete in a two-legged playoff to advance further in the competition.
Key Points:
- The win marks Mourinho's first victory over Real Madrid since leaving the club in 2013.
- Benfica’s late qualification highlights the competitive intensity of the expanded Champions League format.
- Real Madrid’s inconsistent campaign continues, raising questions about their European campaign stability.
- The match showcased dramatic momentum shifts, late goals, and red cards, underlining elite European drama.
- Goalkeeper Trubin’s decisive goal is a rare and memorable moment in Champions League history.
Benfica’s resilience sets up an intriguing playoff round, while Madrid must regroup quickly to keep their European hopes alive.
Sources: UEFA Match Report, Vanguard News
TAGS
José Mourinho, Benfica, Real Madrid, UEFA Champions League, Anatoliy Trubin, Kylian Mbappé,
