Six Real Madrid Players Face Suspension Threat Ahead of Benfica Champions League Clash

G. E (Elbotola)

23 February 2026at17:45

Real Madrid has announced that six of its players are on the verge of suspension due to an accumulation of yellow cards, which could rule them out of the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League. These players risk missing the first leg of the Round of 16 if they receive another yellow card in the upcoming match against Benfica.

The players facing suspension are Vinicius Junior, Alvaro Carreras, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Dean Huijsen, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham. Should any of them pick up another yellow card, the resulting suspension would prevent them from playing in the Champions League Round of 16 first leg, potentially against Manchester City or Sporting CP.

In related news, forward Rodrygo is currently unavailable due to a two-match suspension, while star player Jude Bellingham remains sidelined with an injury. Furthermore, Alvaro Carreras' participation in the anticipated match against Benfica is doubtful due to muscular problems.

Q&A

Which Real Madrid players are facing a Champions League suspension threat?

Six Real Madrid players – Vinicius Jr., Carreras, Tchouaméni, Huijsen, Rodrygo, and Bellingham – are one yellow card away from missing the Champions League Round of 16 first leg.

How would a suspension impact Real Madrid's Champions League knockout stage?

Receiving a yellow card against Benfica would suspend a player for the Round of 16 first leg, potentially against Manchester City or Sporting CP, impacting Real Madrid's crucial knockout stage strategy.

What is the current status of key Real Madrid players like Rodrygo and Bellingham?

Rodrygo is currently suspended for two matches, and Jude Bellingham is sidelined with an injury. Additionally, Alvaro Carreras' participation against Benfica is doubtful due to muscular problems.

Real Madrid

Benfica

UEFA Champions League

Manchester City

Sporting CP