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Real Madrid were more clinical in front of goal
Real Madrid converted 2 of 4 shots on target. Benfica converted 1 from 4.
Minute 16 changed the game
A. Tchouameni's goal at 16' proved to be the decisive moment.
Benfica used possession more effectively
Real Madrid had 56% possession and generated 14 shots. Benfica had 44% and created 12.
Real Madrid defence held firm
Real Madrid faced 12 shots and conceded only 1. Defensive efficiency: 92%.
Real Madrid Survive Benfica Test with Late Vinicius Strike
In a tightly contested affair, Real Madrid narrowly edged Benfica 2-1 in the UEFA Champions League round of 32. The visitors struck first through Rafa Silva's 14th-minute opener, but Real Madrid quickly responded with a goal from Aurélien Tchouaméni just two minutes later.
The tactical key for Real Madrid was their ability to control the tempo of the game, maintaining 56% possession and completing 90% of their 573 passes. This allowed them to dictate the flow and create more chances, with 10 shots on target compared to Benfica's 8. However, Benfica's high press caused problems, as evidenced by Real Madrid's 16 fouls and 4 yellow cards.
The decisive moment came in the 80th minute when Vinicius Junior scored the winning goal, assisted by Federico Valverde. This highlighted Benfica's main tactical failure - their inability to mark Vinicius effectively, as he exploited the space left by their high line. Benfica's xG of 1.64 compared to Real Madrid's 0.98 suggests they were unfortunate not to take a point, but Ancelotti's side showed their clinical edge when it mattered most.
Real Madrid defeated Benfica 2–1 at the stadium in UEFA Champions League Round of 32. Rafa Silva (14'), A. Tchouameni (16'), Vinicius Junior (80') scored.
