Real Madrid vs Benfica – Predicted lineup and team news

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The Football Faithful

·25 February 2026

Real Madrid vs Benfica – Predicted lineup and team news

Real Madrid and Benfica meet again in a crucial UEFA Champions League play-off second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday, with a spot in the last 16 up for grabs.

Alvaro Arbeloa’s side takes a narrow one-goal lead into the game and will be focused on protecting that advantage to book their place in the next round.

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Real Madrid head into the second leg after a hectic spell, balancing a close La Liga title fight with their Champions League play-off against Benfica. They were recently beaten by Osasuna in the league, a result that allowed Barcelona to move above them at the top of the table.

Real Madrid team news

Real Madrid are contending with several significant absentees for the second leg. Midfielder Jude Bellingham is sidelined with a thigh/hamstring injury.

Rodrygo is unavailable due to a two-match UEFA suspension for dissent following his red card in the 4-2 defeat to Benfica in the league phase.

Defensive issues persist, with centre-back Eder Militao ruled out by a long-term hamstring problem. Dani Ceballos is another confirmed absentee in midfield, while Dean Huijsen is a doubt after sitting out the recent match against Osasuna.

Another huge blow is regarding Kylian Mbappe who is reportedly out of this match due to a knee injury. He wasn’t able to complete the training session yesterday and is now a confirmed absentee.

Real Madrid predicted lineup

Possible Real Madrid starting XI: Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Asencio, Rudiger, Carreras; Valverde, Guler, Tchouameni, Camavinga; Garcia, Vinicius.