Real Madrid are eyeing revenge as they face Benfica again in the UEFA Champions League playoff round. Los Blancos were beaten 4-2 in their last league phase match, but they now have the chance for revenge in a home-and-away format.
Madrid Drawn Against Benfica in UCL Playoff
Having to drop out of the UCL League Phase top eight after their shocking 4-2 loss on the final matchday, Alvaro Abeloa’s side will be keen to get that payback. Los Blancos saw their chance of qualifying directly for the Champions League’s last 16 vanish after that defeat against Benfica.
Making things more disappointing, their defeat becomes such a major topic in the media, as it gives the Eagles their playoff ticket in dramatic fashion. Having Benfica score in the final minute through their goalie, Anatoly Trubin, creates such an amazing story for them and puts another negative view on Madrid.
Not only did they lose the match 4-2, Los Blancos also ended the match playing with nine men after Raul Asencio and Rodrygo saw red. Those sending-offs will certainly mean those two players will miss the Playoffs’ first leg tie in Portugal.
However, although the drawing now gives a chance for Madrid to get their payback, it could also be a momentum for the Portuguese outfit. Having beaten Arbeloa’s men before, Jose Mourinho’s team will be brimming with confidence, believing that they can eliminate their opponent even in a two-leg tie.
In all, because of that dramatic result, the upcoming matchup between Madrid and Benfica could turn into a thrilling battle both in Portugal and Spain. Both teams will play with a sense of belief and confidence with their chance to advance into the next round.
UCL Playoff Drawing
Benfica v Madrid; Galatasaray v Juventus; Dortmund v Atalanta; Monaco v PSG; Club Brugge v Atletico Madrid; Qarabag v Newcastle; Olympiacos v Leverkusen; Bodo/Glimt v Inter.
