The rivalry between Real Madrid and S.L. Benfica is set to reignite in the playoff round for the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League, following an earlier group-stage thriller that saw Benfica claim a 4–2 victory over the Spanish giants.
Real Madrid concluded the league phase in ninth place with 15 points, securing five wins against three defeats. Los Blancos scored 21 goals while conceding 12, showcasing their attacking prowess but also exposing defensive vulnerabilities that could prove decisive in knockout football.
Benfica, meanwhile, booked their playoff berth after finishing 24th with nine points from three wins and five losses.
The Portuguese side netted 10 goals and conceded 12, narrowly securing qualification in a tightly contested group stage.
The upcoming clash presents Madrid with an opportunity to avenge their earlier defeat, while Benfica will be eager to reaffirm their credentials as a dangerous contender on the European stage.
The first leg of the playoff round will take place on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the iconic Estádio da Luz in Lisbon. Kickoff is scheduled for 10:00 PM Cairo time and 11:00 PM Saudi time.
In a surprising development, Portuguese media revealed that José Mourinho, head coach of Benfica, spent approximately 60 minutes in hospital prior to the highly anticipated encounter.
According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, Mourinho sought urgent medical attention on Friday morning at a hospital in Ponta Delgada after suffering from acute ear inflammation that caused severe pain.
Medical examinations were conducted, and he received the necessary treatment and medication before returning to the team’s camp without complications. Demonstrating a swift recovery, Mourinho later led Benfica to a 2–1 victory over C.D. Santa Clara in the Portuguese league.
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