Champions League: Real Madrid Secures 1-0 Victory Over Benfica in Playoff First Leg - Elbotola
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Champions League: Real Madrid Secures 1-0 Victory Over Benfica in Playoff First Leg

Champions League: Real Madrid Secures 1-0 Victory Over Benfica in Playoff First Leg

T.E (Elbotola)
17 February 2026at22:00

Real Madrid secured a narrow 1-0 victory over hosts Benfica on Tuesday evening in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 play-off.

Moroccan international Brahim Diaz continued to be absent from Real Madrid's starting lineup for the match, remaining on the substitutes' bench until the 86th minute.

The game, held at the Estádio da Luz, remained goalless until the 50th minute when Vinicius Junior scored the winning goal for Real Madrid.

The Spanish side had previously lost 4-2 to Benfica in the final round of the league stage, which necessitated their participation in this play-off instead of securing direct qualification to the Round of 16.

The return leg is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, February 25, at 8:00 PM GMT, at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

What was Brahim Diaz's role in Real Madrid's Champions League playoff match against Benfica?

Brahim Diaz was absent from Real Madrid's starting lineup for the Benfica match, only entering as a substitute in the 86th minute, suggesting a limited role in the first leg.

How does Real Madrid's 1-0 victory against Benfica affect their Champions League Round of 16 chances?

Real Madrid's 1-0 first-leg win provides a vital lead for the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, positioning them favorably after their earlier 4-2 loss to Benfica.

When and where is the Champions League return leg between Real Madrid and Benfica?

The second leg is scheduled for Wednesday, February 25, at 8:00 PM GMT, and will be played at Real Madrid's home ground, the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
Real Madrid
Benfica
UEFA Champions League

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