The stage is set for a rip-roaring contest, if recent history between Real Madrid and Benfica is anything to go by. Destiny has given both teams another chance to have a go at each other tomorrow night and make it to the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League.
Recent History
It was the 29th of January when Real Madrid visited Portugal to play the 8th and final group stage game against Benfica at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon. What ensued was one of the finest games witnessed in the Group Stage of the Champions League this season.
Benfica won 4-2 with their goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin scoring in the 8th minute of stoppage time to send Benfica into the playoffs and pulling down Real Madrid to 9th position, thus denying the Spanish giants an automatic qualification to the Round of 16. Kylian Mbappe scored a brace but Benfica were too good that night and prevailed over the Los Blancos.
Players to Watch Out For
Real Madrid remain a formidable unit without an iota of doubt. A lot, though, depends on the consistent and fit again Kylian Mbappe and, of course, the pace and flair of Vinicius Jr on the left flank. Jude Bellingham, Guler and Tchouameni add massive strength to the midfield. The defence is the only concern for Alvaro Arbeloa.
Benfica have the experience of their Manager Jose Mourinho, who will use all his expertise to guide his team against Real Madrid. Pavlidis and Andreas Schjelderup are the ones Real need to be wary of. They have the skill to score and may trouble the Real defence.
Tactical Approach
Real Madrid will surely look for more possession and play their natural attacking, fluid football. With a reservoir of talent on the field and on the bench, the Los Blancos will look to keep up the pressure on the hosts.
Benfica will defend strongly for sure, and the wily Mourinho would have already devised a strategy to counter Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. A lot will depend on how Otamendi and Araujo keep the defence intact and help out the midfield in supporting slick counter attacks.
Expectations
Real Madrid should come through, considering their recent form at home. The giants are already wounded and will seek revenge. It will be difficult for Benfica to turn the tables this time.
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