Real Madrid vs. Benfica: Champions League 2025-26 Play-off Preview
Real Madrid returns home with a slim advantage thanks to a stunning second-half strike by Vinícius Júnior in the first leg. However, the narrative surrounding this fixture has been heavy; the first leg was marred by reports of racial abuse directed at Vinícius, an issue that continues to cast a shadow over the beautiful game.
Benfica’s Crisis in Madrid
The Portuguese giants arrive in Spain facing significant hurdles. They will be without the tactical guidance of José Mourinho, who is currently serving a suspension. Furthermore, the absence of star forward Gianluca Prestianni leaves a massive void in their attacking line. Under Álvaro Arbeloa, Madrid remains the favorite, but in the Champions League, no lead is ever truly safe.
UCL Match Details & Kick-off Time
| Feature | Details |
| Fixture | Real Madrid vs. SL Benfica |
| Competition | UEFA Champions League 2025-26 (Play-off Second Leg) |
| Date | Wednesday, February 25, 2026 (Local) |
| Venue | Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid, Spain |
| First Leg Score | Benfica 0-1 Real Madrid |
How to Watch Real Madrid vs. Benfica: Global Broadcast Guide
India
- Kick-off Time: 01:30 AM IST (Thursday, Feb 26)
- TV Channels: Sony Sports Ten 2 (English), Sony Sports Ten 3 (Hindi)
- Live Stream: Sony LIV app/website, JioStar
USA
- Kick-off Time: 3:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM PT
- English Broadcast: Paramount+ (Exclusive)
- Spanish Broadcast: ViX+, TUDN USA
- TV Channels: CBS Sports Network (Select coverage)
United Kingdom
- Kick-off Time: 8:00 PM GMT
- TV Channel: TNT Sports 1
- Live Stream: discovery+ app/website, Amazon Prime Video (TNT add-on)
Pakistan
- Kick-off Time: 01:00 AM PKT (Thursday, Feb 26)
- TV Channels: Ten Sports Pakistan, Tapmad Sports
- Live Stream: Tapmad app
Bangladesh
- Kick-off Time: 02:00 AM BST (Thursday, Feb 26)
- TV Channel: Sony Sports Network
- Live Stream: Sony LIV app
Singapore
- Kick-off Time: 04:00 AM SGT (Thursday, Feb 26)
- TV Channel: beIN Sports Singapore
- Live Stream: beIN Sports Connect, StarHub TV+