All eyes of football fans will be on Lisbon, Portugal, on Tuesday evening, as the Estádio da Luz (Stadium of Light) hosts a heavyweight clash between Real Madrid and Benfica at 11:00 PM local time, in the first leg of their Champions League playoff tie. This match carries special significance not only because it's in the most prestigious continental competition, but also because it pits Real Madrid against their former manager, the veteran Portuguese coach José Mourinho.
Mourinho and Real Madrid: A clash between student and former teacher
Fate has once again placed Real Madrid in the path of "The Special One," who managed Los Blancos between 2010 and 2013. Although Mourinho only managed to win the league and domestic cup titles during his time in Madrid, his tactical influence remains fresh in everyone's minds. Mourinho enters the match buoyed by his recent psychological advantage, having previously led Benfica to a 4-2 victory over Real Madrid in Lisbon. This defeat denied Los Blancos direct qualification and forced them into this playoff, in a dramatic scenario that saw Ukrainian goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin score the decisive goal.
Mbappe leads Real Madrid's dreams towards their sixteenth title
On the technical side, Real Madrid, crowned champions of a record-breaking 15th title in 2024, rely on their lethal attacking arsenal led by French star Kylian Mbappé. Mbappé is having an exceptional season, topping the tournament's scoring charts with 13 goals in just seven matches, a comfortable lead over his closest rival, Bayern Munich's Harry Kane. The Royal Club, participating in the knockout stages for the 29th consecutive time, aims to reaffirm its dominance in Europe and widen the gap with AC Milan, its closest historical rival.
The scent of history: Memories of the 1962 final
It's impossible to discuss a clash between Real Madrid and Benfica without acknowledging the rich history shared by the two clubs. The match brings to mind the famous 1962 final, when Benfica's "Eagles," led by the legendary Eusébio, denied Real Madrid the title with a 5-3 victory, a match that saw Puskás score a hat-trick, though it wasn't enough to save Los Blancos. Although Benfica's tally of continental titles since the 1960s remains at two, the Portuguese club's long history makes them a formidable opponent, especially on their home ground and in front of their passionate fans.
Roadmap to the final
This match comes at a time when English clubs are dominating the tournament, with five teams (Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea, and Manchester City) having already secured direct qualification, alongside Bayern Munich, Barcelona, and Sporting Lisbon. It's worth noting that the winner of the match at the Estádio da Luz will face another tough test, as they will play the winner of the Manchester City vs. Sporting Lisbon match, promising even more excitement in the later stages.
