Benfica under Mourinho drags Real into play-offs, thanks to goalkeeper’s magic

In a dramatic turn of events at Estádio da Luz, Benfica pulled off an astonishing result that not only saved them from elimination but also propelled Real Madrid into the Champions League play-offs — thanks to an extraordinary last-minute goal from none other than Benfica goalkeeper Anatolii Trubin.

The match had already been high-profile due to the presence of José Mourinho, Benfica’s manager, facing his former pupil Álvaro Arbeloa, who had once played under him at Real Madrid. Historically, Mourinho had never beaten his former club since leaving them in 2013. Yet from the outset, he pressed his former team relentlessly, setting the stage for a memorable clash.

Real Madrid, reigning European champions until last season, opened the scoring in the 30th minute when Kylian Mbappé headed in from a well-placed cross. However, Benfica responded swiftly. Andreas Skeldrup, carrying the ball upfield, was left unmarked when Raúl Asensio slipped during his defensive duties, allowing Skeldrup to slot the ball home, equalising within six minutes.

Just before halftime, Benfica were awarded a penalty after a foul on Nicolás Otamendi during a corner. Vangelis Pavlidis converted confidently, giving Benfica a 2-1 lead. In the second half, Benfica doubled their advantage in the 54th minute when Skeldrup scored again from Pavlidis’s assist. Real Madrid briefly threatened to return to the match when Mbappé scored his second goal in the 58th minute, assisted by Arda Güler, bringing his season tally to 12 goals.

Despite Real’s late pressure, the match’s climax was extraordinary. With Asensio and Rodrigo sent off, Real were reduced to nine men, leaving Benfica facing the possibility of elimination due to other results in the group stage. In the dying moments, Benfica earned a free-kick. Trubin, the goalkeeper, surged into the opposition box and executed a header that found the net, sending the home crowd into ecstasy. This sensational goal ensured Benfica’s progression to the next round while simultaneously advancing Real Madrid into the play-offs.

Wednesday’s results across Europe further amplified the stakes. Barcelona, Chelsea, Sporting Lisbon, and Manchester City all secured victories, leaving Real ninth in the group stage standings after a 4-2 defeat to Benfica. Consequently, Real Madrid must now navigate two additional knockout matches, while Benfica, although having to play extra fixtures, can approach them with confidence.

Key Match Events

Mourinho’s triumph over his former club marks a historic moment, while Trubin’s heroic header will long be remembered as one of the most remarkable goals in Champions League group stage history.