Real Madrid is set to host Benfica this afternoon in a pivotal UEFA Champions League play-off second-leg clash, with a place in the Round of 16 on the line. Los Blancos hold a slender 1-0 aggregate lead following their first-leg victory in Lisbon on February 17, a result decided by a stunning Vinícius Júnior strike.
The first soccer match has been overshadowed by controversy, and with significant suspensions and growing tension ahead of kickoff at Bernabéu, today’s showdown promises drama both on and off the pitch.
Real Madrid vs. Benfica Match Info
- 📍 Where: Bernabéu, Madrid, Spain
- 📅 Date: Wednesday, February 25
- ⏰ Start Time: 3:00 PM ET
- 📺/💻 Broadcast/Stream: Paramount+, TUDN, UniMas, Vix
Real Madrid vs. Benfica Betting Odds
Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook has Real Madrid positioned as clear favorites heading into this decisive second leg at Bernabéu, reflecting both their 1-0 aggregate advantage and their strong home pedigree in European competition. Benfica can still flip the script in Madrid, and the odds suggest there’s intrigue for late drama.
Moneyline / Match Result
- Real Madrid: -150 favorites
- Draw: +325
- Benfica: +375 underdogs
To Advance to Round of 16
- Real Madrid: -1000
- Benfica: +550
Total Goals (Over/Under)
- Over 3.5 goals: +155
- Under 3.5 goals: -200
Real Madrid vs. Benfica Popular Bets
With advancement in the Champions League hanging in the balance, Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook offers markets that reflect both attacking urgency and star power. From goal-driven plays to player props centered around Vini Jr.’s impact in the first leg, these are some of the most popular wagers drawing attention ahead of kickoff at Bernabéu.
- Over 1.5 total goals
- Both teams to score
- Over 8.5 total corners
- Vinícius Júnior anytime goalscorer
- Vinícius Júnior over 1.5 shots on target
First-Leg Drama & Second-Leg Outlook
Real Madrid claimed a narrow 1-0 win in the first leg in Lisbon thanks to a superb Vinícius Júnior goal, giving them the edge heading into today’s match. Benfica will be without Gianluca Prestianni and manager José Mourinho for the pivotal clash due to separate suspensions stemming from the first leg.
- Prestianni has been provisionally suspended for one match by UEFA due to an ongoing investigation into alleged racial abuse toward Vini Jr. in the first leg and is not available for today’s match.
- Mourinho is also suspended after receiving a red card for his conduct toward a referee during the first leg, meaning he will not be available on the touchline.
These disciplinary absences add extra intrigue to a matchup already simmering with narrative and stakes. The first leg has drawn criticism, conversation, and disciplinary scrutiny at the highest levels of the game. From racial-abuse protocols to coach expulsions, on-field matters and off-field tensions are intertwined as both sides prepare to battle with a trip to the Round of 16 on the line.
Key Injuries & Availability
Before placing wagers, keep an eye on final team news. Player availability and lineup changes can shift odds and betting markets right up to kickoff.
Real Madrid Injury Report
- Kylian Mbappé: Out (knee)
- Éder Militão: Out (muscle injury)
- Jude Bellingham: Out (hamstring)
- Dani Ceballos: Out (calf)
- Rodrygo: Out (suspended)
- Dean Huijsen: Doubtful (muscle injury)
Benfica Injury Report
- João Veloso: Out (shoulder)
- Gianluca Prestianni: Out (suspended)
Referenced odds are subject to change.
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