In-depth Analysis
Recent form for Real Madrid C.F. in cup competitions has been concerning. In their last four matches, the Spanish giants have lost three, spread across the ","UEFA Champions League","european football league"], ["sports_competition","Copa del Rey","spanish football cup"], and Supercopa de España football super cup"]. With these disappointing results, it is hard to trust that Alvaro Arbeloa’s side will have a favorable outcome when visiting Estádio da Luz.
S.L. Benfica is not an opponent to underestimate. In their most recent meeting in the UEFA Champions League qualifying round, Benfica crushed Real Madrid 4-2, despite Kylian Mbappé scoring a brace.
Under the guidance of the experienced Jose Mourinho, Benfica are in impressive form, remaining unbeaten in their last five matches with four wins, particularly excelling at home. Statistics show that the Portuguese side has won all six of their most recent games at Estádio da Luz.
Historically, Real Madrid have also struggled against Benfica. In their three previous encounters, the Spanish giants have yet to win, drawing once and losing twice, including the 2-4 defeat in the 2025/26 Champions League qualifying round.
Overall, under the leadership of Jose Mourinho, Alvaro Arbeloa’s team will need a bit of luck to secure a draw against Benfica, setting up the return leg to decide who advances to the Champions League Round of 16.