Lisbon, Portugal – In a Champions League encounter for the ages, Benfica secured a dramatic 4-2 victory over Real Madrid, thanks to a 98th-minute header from their goalkeeper, Anatoliy Trubin. The stunning goal not only sealed a crucial win but also propelled Jose Mourinho's side into the Champions League knockout stage.
The match, played on Wednesday at Estadio da Luz, was a rollercoaster from start to finish. Real Madrid, hoping to secure a top-eight finish and automatic qualification for the last 16, found themselves trailing despite a brace from Kylian Mbappé. Andreas Schjelderup struck twice for Benfica, with Vangelis Pavlidis converting a penalty to keep the Portuguese side in the lead.
As the clock ticked down, Benfica were on the verge of elimination despite leading 3-2. Real Madrid's Raúl Asencio and Rodrygo were both sent off, reducing them to nine men. With seconds remaining, Benfica earned a free-kick, and in a moment of inspired audacity, Mourinho called Trubin up to join the attack. The Ukrainian goalkeeper rose to the occasion, heading the ball past Thibaut Courtois to send the stadium into delirium.
Trubin's late heroics not only secured Benfica's place in the playoff round but also denied Real Madrid an automatic spot in the last 16. The result means Real Madrid finished ninth and will now have to compete in a two-legged play-off in February. Benfica, meanwhile, will advance to the play-offs.
The victory was especially sweet for Mourinho, marking his first win against his former club since departing from Real Madrid. Mourinho managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013. Following the match, Mourinho admitted that he apologized to Álvaro Arbeloa for his celebrations.
Trubin becomes only the third goalkeeper to score from open play in Champions League history. Social media erupted with praise for both Trubin and Mourinho. Some fans called Mourinho a "special one".
The dramatic win ensures Benfica will continue their Champions League journey, while Real Madrid will have to navigate a play-off tie to reach the last 16.
