Real Madrid’s Champions League campaign took another chaotic turn in Lisbon as they were beaten by Benfica despite a brilliant brace from Kylian Mbappe, a result that leaves the Spanish giants forced into the competition’s play-off round.
It was a night that swung wildly, with Madrid repeatedly giving themselves a way back through Mbappe, only to undo their work with rash moments and costly discipline. Benfica fed off the atmosphere inside the stadium, growing in belief as the contest opened up and the pressure on the visitors increased.
Mbappe was Madrid’s clear standout, dragging his side forward with pace, direct running and two goals that should have been enough to steady the ship. His finishes gave Carlo Ancelotti’s men lifelines at key moments, but the overall performance around him lacked control and composure.
The turning points came through two red cards, leaving Madrid short-handed as Benfica pushed on and the match became increasingly frantic. The dismissals changed the shape of the game, handing Benfica the initiative and allowing them to turn momentum into a decisive advantage.
As Madrid tried to hold on and chase the game at the same time, Benfica’s confidence surged and the home crowd responded with wild celebrations as the result became clear. For Madrid, it was another night of frustration: a top-class display from Mbappe, but a shambolic team showing that ended in defeat and confirmed their place in the play-off round.
