26 February 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Madrid — Real Madrid delivered a sensational performance to eliminate Benfica from the UEFA Champions League, with Vinicius Jr once again proving why he is one of Europe’s most exciting young talents. The Brazilian winger was the standout figure as Los Blancos navigated a tense and high-stakes knockout clash, producing moments of brilliance that ultimately sealed the Portuguese side’s fate.
In a match where margins were razor-thin, Vinicius Jr’s pace, dribbling, and clinical finishing made all the difference. His relentless runs down the left flank stretched Benfica’s defense and created space for his teammates, culminating in a stunning individual effort that provided Real Madrid with the decisive goal of the night.
Player Ratings and Key Performances
- Vinicius Jr (9/10) – Electric, unpredictable, and ruthless. The Brazilian terrorized Benfica’s backline and scored the emphatic goal that ensured Madrid’s passage to the next round. Every time he touched the ball, the Portuguese defenders were under pressure.
- Thibaut Courtois (8/10) – The Real Madrid goalkeeper was alert and commanding, making several key saves to deny Benfica’s dangerous forwards. His composure under pressure was vital in keeping the clean sheet.
- Luka Modric (8/10) – The midfield maestro controlled the tempo, linking defense and attack seamlessly. His vision and distribution opened up spaces, and his calm on the ball provided Madrid with a sense of stability.
- Karim Benzema (7/10) – The French striker worked tirelessly to create chances and draw defenders out of position. Although he didn’t find the net, his intelligent movement and link-up play were essential.
- David Alaba (7/10) – Solid at the back, Alaba provided composure in defense while also supporting attacks down the left side. His positioning and interceptions were crucial to thwarting Benfica’s counterattacks.
- Antonio Rudiger (6/10) – A reliable presence in central defense, Rudiger dealt with aerial threats efficiently but was occasionally caught out by Benfica’s quick passing.
- Eduardo Camavinga (7/10) – Energetic and dynamic in midfield, Camavinga covered a lot of ground and helped break up play, while also initiating counterattacks with incisive passes.
- Rodrygo (7/10) – Contributed with pace and creativity on the right wing, causing problems for Benfica’s full-backs and linking well with Vinicius Jr and Benzema.
- Aurélien Tchouaméni (6/10) – The French midfielder provided defensive solidity, though he was less influential in attack, focusing on shielding the backline.
- Lucas Vázquez (6/10) – Came on as a substitute to add energy on the flank, delivering a few dangerous crosses and helping maintain Madrid’s intensity.
- Eduardo Camavinga (7/10) – Dynamic and persistent, Camavinga helped control the midfield battles and transitioned play effectively.
Match Summary
From the outset, Real Madrid demonstrated attacking intent, with Vinicius Jr leading the charge. Benfica tried to respond with quick counters and possession-based build-up, but Madrid’s pressing and disciplined defensive shape kept them contained.
The first half was tightly contested, with Courtois making several crucial saves, denying Benfica chances to score. In the second half, the game opened up, and Vinicius Jr’s relentless movement finally paid off. Picking the ball on the edge of the area, he dribbled past two defenders before curling a powerful finish into the top corner — a goal that epitomized his season and cemented Real Madrid’s dominance.
Madrid’s defense remained resolute, and the team’s collective effort ensured that Benfica could not find a way back into the match. The victory sees Los Blancos progress to the next round, keeping their Champions League hopes alive while sending a strong message about their attacking firepower.
Tactical Analysis
Carlo Ancelotti’s side displayed a perfect blend of defensive solidity and attacking dynamism. Madrid’s wingers stretched the play, creating gaps for Modric and Camavinga to exploit. Defensively, the team remained compact, forcing Benfica into low-percentage shots and preventing dangerous combinations in the final third.
Vinicius Jr’s role was pivotal in the tactical setup. By constantly taking on defenders and drawing attention, he created space for Benzema and Rodrygo to operate. His pace also meant that Madrid could execute swift counterattacks, keeping Benfica on the back foot.
Implications for Real Madrid
This victory reinforces Real Madrid’s reputation as a European powerhouse, capable of performing under pressure in knockout stages. Vinicius Jr’s performance adds to his growing reputation as one of the most lethal attackers in world football. The team now faces renewed optimism heading into the quarter-finals, with confidence high and momentum firmly on their side.
Conclusion
Vinicius Jr’s brilliance ensured that Real Madrid overcame Benfica in a thrilling Champions League encounter. The Brazilian’s performance, combined with disciplined defending and midfield control, highlighted Madrid’s balanced and formidable approach. As Los Blancos advance, they will look to maintain this intensity, aiming to lift the trophy once again while relying on their young star to continue producing moments of magic on Europe’s biggest stage.
Summary:
Vinicius Jr starred as Real Madrid eliminated Benfica in the Champions League, delivering an emphatic performance with a decisive goal, while Madrid’s defense and midfield ensured control throughout the match.