Champions League / Diaz Benched Again for Real Madrid's Clash Against Hosts Benfica
T.E (Elbotola)
17 February 2026at18:45
Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa has announced his official starting lineup for the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 playoff against Portuguese side Benfica.
The lineup sees the continued absence of Moroccan international Brahim Diaz from Real Madrid's starting XI, with Arbeloa opting to keep him on the bench. Kylian Mbappé, however, will start the match.
Real Madrid's starting XI is as follows: Courtois - Arnold - Rüdiger - Huijsen - Carreras - Güler - Valverde - Tchouaméni - Camavinga - Vinicius - Mbappé.
The match between the two teams will take place on Tuesday, starting at 8:00 PM GMT (20:00 GMT), at the Estádio da Luz in Portugal.
Q&A
Why was Brahim Diaz benched for the Real Madrid vs. Benfica match?
Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa decided to bench Brahim Diaz for the Champions League first leg against Benfica, opting for a different starting lineup. The article provides the full XI and insights into Arbeloa's tactical choices.
How does Kylian Mbappé starting impact Real Madrid's strategy against Benfica?
Kylian Mbappé is confirmed to start for Real Madrid against Benfica in the Champions League, signaling a key attacking role. The full article details the complete lineup and what Mbappé's inclusion implies for Arbeloa's strategy.
What time is the Real Madrid vs. Benfica Champions League match?
The UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first leg between Real Madrid and Benfica is scheduled for Tuesday, starting at 8:00 PM GMT (20:00 GMT), at the Estádio da Luz in Portugal.
