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Real Madrid suffered a major setback in their 2025–26 UEFA Champions League campaign after a disappointing 4–2 defeat to Benfica, a result that denied them direct qualification to the top eight of the league phase. The loss, which came in a high-stakes encounter, exposed defensive weaknesses and inconsistency from the Spanish giants on a crucial European night.
Benfica started the match with intensity and purpose, pressing high and exploiting spaces in Madrid’s back line. The Portuguese side were rewarded early when they took the lead through a swift counter-attack, catching Real Madrid off guard. Although the visitors attempted to regain control through midfield dominance, Benfica continued to look sharper and more clinical in the final third.
Real Madrid managed to equalise midway through the first half, briefly restoring hope of a comeback. However, Benfica responded immediately, reclaiming the lead with a well-worked team goal that highlighted Madrid’s defensive lapses. The home crowd grew in confidence as Benfica controlled the tempo, while Real Madrid struggled to maintain rhythm and composure.
The second half followed a similar pattern. Benfica extended their advantage with a third goal, capitalising on another defensive error. Real Madrid attempted to push forward, leaving gaps at the back, and although they managed to pull one goal back to make it 3–2, their momentum was short-lived. Benfica sealed the victory late on with a fourth goal, effectively ending Madrid’s hopes of finishing inside the top eight.
The defeat means Real Madrid will now have to navigate the playoff route to progress further in the competition, a scenario they were keen to avoid. Finishing outside the top eight not only complicates their path but also raises questions about their consistency in the revamped Champions League format.
Head coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted after the match that his side failed to perform at the required level. “We made too many mistakes, especially defensively, and at this level you get punished,” he said. “Benfica deserved the win.”
For Benfica, the victory marked a statement performance against one of Europe’s most decorated clubs. Their disciplined pressing, quick transitions, and clinical finishing underlined their ambitions in this season’s competition.
As the Champions League progresses, Real Madrid will need to regroup quickly, address their shortcomings, and rediscover the resilience that has long defined their European legacy.
