Real Madrid secured a crucial 2-1 win over Benfica in the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League playoff at the Santiago Bernabéu, ensuring their place in the Round of 16. Full-back Alvaro Carreras described the victory as a major confidence booster for the squad, highlighting the team’s resilience and focus under pressure.
With a 1-0 advantage from the first leg in Lisbon, Real Madrid knew they had to maintain composure against a Benfica side eager to overturn the deficit. Early on, Rafa Silva gave Benfica the lead, but Aurelien Tchouameni equalized within minutes. Vinicius Junior later scored the decisive goal in the 80th minute, sealing a 3-1 aggregate victory for Los Blancos.
Carreras Highlights Positive Team Response
Alvaro Carreras praised the squad for their mental strength and clear focus on victory. He emphasized that the team approached the match with a determined mindset and left the Bernabéu feeling confident for the next stage of the Champions League.
“We leave the stadium with positive feelings for the Round of 16. We came with the goal of winning,” Carreras said. “It was a tough match, but we achieved our objective and are now looking forward to the next Champions League challenge.”
Carreras also noted that the early pressure from Benfica required Madrid to work harder to find their rhythm, but the team’s unity helped them overcome the initial setbacks.
Overcoming Early Benfica Pressure
Benfica’s aggressive start tested Real Madrid’s defensive organization. Carreras acknowledged that similar situations have occurred in previous matches, but the support of the Bernabéu fans was crucial in boosting team morale.
“Recently, we often start games like this. Playing at home, with the fans’ support, makes a big difference, and we were able to turn the match in our favor,” Carreras explained.
The ability to respond under pressure highlights Madrid’s mental toughness and the importance of teamwork in high-stakes European matches.
Team Solidarity Drives Success
Carreras emphasized that team cohesion remains the backbone of Real Madrid’s success. The synergy among players allowed them to control key moments and capitalize on scoring opportunities.
“We have a great squad and incredible teammates. Support for each player is vital,” Carreras said. “The more united we are on the pitch, the better our performances will be.”
This collective approach allowed Real Madrid to recover quickly after conceding and maintain offensive pressure, ultimately leading to the decisive goal from Vinicius Junior.
Looking Forward to the Champions League Round of 16
Real Madrid now shifts focus to the Round of 16, with the draw set for Friday, February 27, 2026. Potential opponents include Sporting Lisbon or Manchester City, both of which will test the team’s tactical adaptability.
Carreras stressed that lessons learned from the Benfica match—starting strong and maintaining defensive discipline—will be key as Madrid prepares for tougher opposition in the next stage.
“We need to refine our defensive setup and start matches more effectively. Winning today was important, but we must keep improving for the Round of 16,” Carreras added.
Conclusion: Positive Momentum for Los Blancos
Although Real Madrid did not dominate from the first whistle, their ability to stay composed and united allowed them to secure a 2-1 home win over Benfica. According to Carreras, leaving the Bernabéu with confidence is just as crucial as the goals scored.
The victory reinforces Real Madrid’s resilience, team solidarity, and tactical awareness, all vital for a deep Champions League run. With a motivated squad and lessons learned from this playoff, Los Blancos enter the Round of 16 with renewed optimism, ready to compete at the highest level in European football.
Fans can look forward to seeing Madrid continue their journey, relying not only on individual talent but also on a cohesive team effort that could lead them to the latter stages of the Champions League 2025/2026.
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