Anatoly Trubin’s unexpected header in the stoppage time of the second half clinched an impressive 4-2 win for Benfica over a lackluster Real Madrid on Wednesday. Los Blancos struggled to keep up with the Portuguese side, leaving them in a tough spot as they head into the play-offs with the last 16 of the Champions League at stake.
In the first half, Madrid appeared disoriented, with Jose Mourinho’s team pressing the visitors as the half drew to a close. Despite their struggles, Kylian Mbappé managed to score with a header on his first touch, giving Real an undeserved lead.
Benfica equalized in the 36th minute when Andreas Schjelderup found the net with a well-executed header through the legs of Thibaut Courtois, finishing a swift counter-attack. Their second goal followed shortly before halftime after Aurélien Tchouaméni fouled a player in the box, leading to Vangelis Pavlidis scoring from the penalty spot.
The situation for Madrid worsened early in the second half as Benfica scored three more goals stemming from another counter-attack halted by Schjerderup’s effort. Nevertheless, Madrid clawed back when Mbappé scored from a cross by Arda Güler.
As Madrid sought to level the match, both Raul Asensio and Rodrygo were shown red cards during stoppage time. The match concluded with Trubin scoring from a free-kick in the dying moments, sealing a remarkable night for Benfica and setting up a possible rematch with either Mourinho’s squad or Bodo/Glimt in February.
Goal Ratings for Real Madrid Players at Estadio La Luz
Goalkeeper and Defense
Thibaut Courtois (5/10):
Made several good saves but mishandled the first goal, dove the wrong way for the second, and had no chance on the third and fourth goals.
Federico Valverde (5/10):
Was often outpaced on both flanks and left Asensio isolated.
Raul Albiol (4/10):
Struggled against Benfica’s build-up to the equalizer and received a needless second yellow in stoppage time, but did assist Mbappé’s opening goal.
Dean Heisen (6/10):
Covered a lot of ground but wasn’t at his best; unfairly substituted.
Alvaro Carreras (5/10):
Lacked positional discipline in the first half, contributing to Benfica’s consistent attacks down his side.
Midfield
Aurelien Tchouaméni (5/10):
Conceded a penalty from a careless push and could have moved the ball quicker at times.
Arda Güler (6/10):
Struggled to keep possession, with the right side performing better.
Jude Bellingham (6/10):
Had limited opportunities to create plays as the match progressed.
Attack
Franco Mastatuono (5/10):
Provided width but needed better ball control.
Kylian Mbappé (8/10):
Scored a solid header but faced an injury scare shortly after; brought Madrid back into contention but couldn’t secure further goals.
Vinicius Jr. (5/10):
Invisible in the first half, showed more promise afterward but often ran into double-teams.
Substitutes and Manager
Eduardo Camavinga (6/10):
Brought additional power to midfield after entering the game.
Rodrigo (4/10):
Made little impact on the right and was sent off for dissent in stoppage time.
David Alaba (6/10):
Handled a shift to center back well.
Jorge Setero (6/10):
Showed promise during his short cameo from the academy.
Brahim Diaz (N/A):
Didn’t have enough time to contribute meaningfully.
Alvaro Arbeloa (4/10):
Despite a strong effort, his team’s vulnerability ultimately led to a surprising defeat.
This shocking upset underlines the shifting dynamics in European football, reminding fans that no team is invulnerable, regardless of historical prestige. Such results keep the spirit of competition alive and can signal a turning point for clubs aiming for glory on the continental stage.
