In a closely contested UEFA Champions League round of 32 clash, Real Madrid emerged victorious with a 1-0 win over Benfica at the Estádio da Luz in Lisbon. The decisive moment came early in the second half, when Vinicius Junior, assisted by Kylian Mbappe, found the back of the net in the 50th minute. This goal proved enough to separate the two sides, despite Benfica's relentless push for an equalizer.
A Tense Second Half Decides the Match
The first half ended goalless, with both teams struggling to carve out clear chances. The match came to life after the break, with Real Madrid's swift counter-attacking proving pivotal. Vinicius Junior's goal not only gave the visitors the lead but also set the stage for a heightened battle as Benfica sought to fight back.
Substitutions by Benfica in the 74th minute, including the introduction of Rafa Silva, aimed to change the tide, but Real Madrid's defense held firm. A flurry of yellow cards highlighted the heated atmosphere on the pitch, with players from both sides drawn into the intense contest.
Statistics Reveal Madrid's Edge
Real Madrid demonstrated superior ball control with 58% possession and outshot Benfica with 16 attempts compared to their host's 10. The visitors were also more efficient in converting their chances, as reflected in their 1.11 expected goals compared to Benfica's 0.41. Dean Huijsen stood out with his impeccable passing, achieving an 88% accuracy rate from 99 passes, and was complemented by Eduardo Camavinga’s six tackles in midfield.
Looking Ahead: Real Madrid's Resurgence
Real Madrid's victory marks an important rebound following their previous defeat to Benfica in the same competition. Their recent form, highlighted by wins over Valencia and Olympiacos, reflects their growing momentum. For Benfica, the loss is a setback, but their run of strong performances in the league suggests resilience as they look to bounce back in upcoming fixtures.
