Real Madrid vs Benfica: TV Channel, Kick-Off Time and How to Watch Champions League Clash
Everything you need to know ahead of the crucial knockout play-off second leg in the Champions League.
Harry Latham-Coyle Wednesday 25 February 2026 07:25 GMT
Real Madrid hold a narrow advantage over Benfica after the first leg of their Champions League knockout play-off tie, but the build-up to the return fixture has been overshadowed by significant off-pitch controversies.
Controversy Mars Build-Up to Decisive Second Leg
The tie has been dominated by non-footballing matters, with Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni provisionally suspended for the second leg following allegations from Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr that he suffered racist abuse during the initial encounter last Tuesday.
That first leg was halted for ten minutes before eventually resuming, with Real Madrid securing a 1-0 lead to take back to the Spanish capital. Despite Prestianni's absence, the atmosphere at the Bernabeu is expected to be tense and charged as both teams vie for a coveted spot in the round of 16.
When is Real Madrid vs Benfica?
The decisive second leg of the Champions League knockout play-off is scheduled to kick off at 8pm GMT on Wednesday 25 February at the iconic Estadio Bernabeu in Madrid.
How Can I Watch the Match?
For viewers in the United Kingdom, the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1, with comprehensive coverage beginning from 7.30pm GMT. Additionally, a live stream will be available via the discovery+ platform, ensuring fans do not miss a moment of the action.
Team News and Suspensions
Real Madrid will be without the suspended Rodrygo, while manager Alvaro Arbeloa also faces significant injury concerns. Key players Jude Bellingham, Eder Militao, and Dani Ceballos are all ruled out, with Dean Huijsen considered a doubt for the fixture.
In a notable subplot, Benfica manager Jose Mourinho will not be present on the touchline upon his return to the Bernabeu, having been sent off during the volatile first leg. To compensate for Prestianni's suspension, Dodi Lukebakio is likely to be drafted into the starting lineup.
Predicted Line-Ups for the Crucial Encounter
Real Madrid XI: Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Asencio, Rudiger, Carreras; Valverde, Camavinga, Tchouameni, Guler; Vinicius, Mbappe.
Benfica XI: Trubin; Dedic, Araujo, Otamendi, Dahl; Rios, Aursnes; Lukebakio, Rafa, Schjelderup; Pavlidis.
This fixture promises high drama both on and off the pitch, with a place in the Champions League round of 16 at stake amidst a backdrop of controversy and intense footballing rivalry.
