Benfica XI vs Real Madrid – Projected Squad and Latest Team Updates

Benfica faces Real Madrid tonight in a crucial Champions League play-off match.

The Portuguese team lost 1-0 in a close first-leg match, which was marred by accusations of racist abuse towards Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior.

The two teams meet again at the Santiago Bernabeu this evening. Benfica’s coach, a former Real Madrid manager, is aiming to achieve a surprise victory.

Benfica team news

Gianluca Prestianni will not play due to a one-match suspension from UEFA. He is under investigation related to the racist abuse allegations from the first leg.

Both Benfica and the player deny any wrongdoing, but UEFA has issued a temporary ban. Additionally, Joao Veloso is out with a shoulder injury.

Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni has been suspended by UEFA for Wednesday’s Champions League knockout play-off decider after allegedly racially abusing Vinicius Junior in the first leg last week. pic.twitter.com/segICL5GZJ

— The Football Faithful (@FootyFaithful_) February 23, 2026

Benfica predicted lineup

Benfica predicted XI: Trubin; Dedic, Araujo, Otamendi, Dahl; Rios, Aursnes; Lukebakio, Rafa, Schjelderup; Pavlidis

What time is kick-off?

Real Madrid vs Benfica will start at 8pm GMT.

How to watch Real Madrid vs Benfica?

In the UK, the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1.

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