Benfica 4-2 Real Madrid: Goalkeeper Trubin condemns Madrid to Champions League playoffs

A last-minute header by goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin sealed a stunning 4-2 win for Benfica over nine-man Real Madrid to reach the Champions League playoff round.

Andreas Schjelderup and Vangelis Pavlidis turned the game on its head after Kylian Mbappé’s opener, and a further two goals including Trubin’s unthinkable goal in the stoppage time were enough for the win.

Advertisement

Benfica hauled themselves 24th to seize the final spot in the playoffs, in which Madrid must also find a win to avoid a shock exit before the round of 16.

As it happened

Real Madrid started the game strong and had most of the possession in the opening twenty minutes, controlling the tempo and looking to assert themselves early.

Arda Güler won a free-kick in the defensive half after being fouled by Heorhii Sudakov, giving Madrid a chance to regroup.

That pressure paid off in the 30th minute when Mbappé broke the deadlock with a composed finish to put Los Blancos ahead.

However, Madrid were caught on the counter soon after, and Schjelderup headed in from the centre of the box in the 36th minute to level the score.

Advertisement

Benfica’s Fredrik Aursnes tested Thibaut Courtois with a left-footed shot from inside the box, which the keeper comfortably gathered to keep Madrid in contention.

Three yellow cards were shown in the first half, with Raul Asensio and Aurélien Tchouaméni booked for Real Madrid.

Leandro Barreiro for Benfica was also booked, reflecting the intensity and competitive nature of the opening 45 minutes.

Just before half-time, the visitors conceded a penalty following a foul from Nicholas Otamendi, and Pavlidis converted to give Benfica the lead.

Despite controlling spells of possession and creating chances, Madrid were punished on the break with their defence lapsing in concentration numerous times.

Advertisement

Benfica extended their lead nine minutes into the second half as Schjelderup bagged his second of the night, putting the hosts 3–1 up after Raul Asensio was caught out of position for Real Madrid.

Mbappé struck soon after Schjelderup’s goal, pulling one back for Madrid and keeping them in the contest.

Madrid dominated possession in the second half, but Benfica controlled the game and looked to protect their advantage.

Barreiro tested Courtois as Benfica hunted a fourth goal to keep their knockout hopes alive, but the Madrid keeper denied the effort.

Benfica were given a late advantage after Raul Asensio received a second yellow card for a reckless foul, leaving Real Madrid down to ten men.

Then Jose Mourinho’s keeper Trubin rose highest in the box to meet a free kick from deep on the right late on, sealing a memorable victory.