Free streams Real Madrid vs Benfica: how to watch the 2025/26 Champions League

The first leg ended 1-0, with Vinicius scoring early in the second half, but the scoreline failed to capture the drama that followed. The Brazilian accused Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni of racial abuse shortly after his goal, prompting a 10-minute stoppage in play, and the incident, which has since resulted in a provisional one-match suspension for the Argentine, dominated post-match discussions.

Real Madrid boss Álvaro Arbeloa is expected to start Vinícius Júnior if he believes the striker is mentally ready. Los Blancos head into the second leg on the back of a 2-1 defeat to Osasuna, a result which leaves them second in La Liga, and they will need a stronger performance to ensure their progression.