Xabi Alonso’s departure from the Real Madrid coaching position sparked immediate speculation about potential successors, with José Mourinho being a prominent name mentioned. However, Mourinho quickly dismissed the rumors, humorously stating that he had no interest in getting involved in a “telenovela.”
Currently, Mourinho is navigating his own storyline at Benfica, where recent disappointing performances have prompted hundreds of fans to gather outside the club’s training facility last week to voice their concerns. Despite Benfica’s unbeaten run in Liga Portugal under Mourinho’s leadership, the team finds itself seven points behind the league leaders and at risk of an early exit from the UEFA Champions League. A victory over Real Madrid this Wednesday is crucial for Benfica to keep its hopes alive, although they will also need favorable outcomes in other matches.
On the other hand, Real Madrid has secured a spot in the knockout stages and can all but guarantee their place in the round of 16 with a draw in Lisbon. The team has recently experienced a boost in morale after consecutive wins against Levante, Monaco, and Villarreal, appearing more settled under the guidance of Álvaro Arbeloa.
One of the standout players for Benfica this season is Vangelis Pavlidis, who is enjoying a remarkable campaign. Despite missing a penalty in the match against Juventus last week, the Greek forward has netted 26 goals across all competitions and leads the team in various offensive metrics. Alongside him, Amar Dedić provides an offensive outlet on the right, and Fredrik Aursnes is expected to play a crucial midfield role.
However, Benfica will need strong defensive displays from veterans like Nicolás Otamendi and goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin to contend with Real Madrid’s formidable attack. Kylian Mbappé is currently the Champions League’s leading scorer with 11 goals, while Vinícius Júnior is showing signs of rediscovering his best form under Arbeloa. Jude Bellingham has also been revitalized since the coaching change, and his contributions could be vital against Benfica.
Despite their ambitions, both teams are coping with significant injury issues. Real Madrid’s injury list includes Trent Alexander-Arnold, Antonio Rüdiger, Éder Militão, and Ferland Mendy, although Aurélien Tchouaméni returns from suspension for the match against Villarreal. On the Benfica side, Dodi Lukébakio, Richard Ríos, Bruma, and Alexander Bah are currently sidelined.
Given the circumstances, many believe that Benfica’s tumultuous European campaign may come to an end in this encounter, with predictions leaning towards a 2-1 victory for Real Madrid over Mourinho’s side. The upcoming match promises to be a critical moment for both teams, with stakes high in the Champions League.