VIDEO: Benfica Goalkeeper Trubin Scores 98th-Minute Winner as Real Madrid Fall in Champions League Thriller
Anatoliy Trubin delivered one of the most astonishing moments in Champions League history as the Benfica goalkeeper scored a last-gasp goal to defeat Real Madrid 4-2 and propel his side into the playoff round.
Goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin scored in the 98th minute as Benfica defeated Real Madrid 4-2 to clinch Champions League qualification.
The dramatic winner came in the 98th minute after Benfica had been staring at elimination on goal difference. Trubin’s header ignited wild celebrations at Estadio da Luz and ensured Jose Mourinho’s team stayed alive in the competition, while nine-man Real Madrid were pushed into a February playoff.
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Benfica entered the match knowing victory was essential to secure a top-24 finish. However, their task became harder when Kylian Mbappe broke the deadlock for Madrid midway through the first half.
The hosts responded with resilience as Andreas Schjelderup equalised shortly after, before Vangelis Pavlidis converted from the penalty spot just before half-time to give Benfica a narrow lead.
Schjelderup doubled his tally in the second half to extend Benfica’s advantage, but Mbappe’s second goal of the evening kept Madrid firmly in contention and set up a tense conclusion.
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With seconds remaining, Mourinho made a bold call by instructing Trubin to join the attack for a late free-kick. The gamble paid off spectacularly as the goalkeeper rose highest to head home the decisive fourth goal and spark pandemonium in Lisbon.
Real Madrid’s night worsened in stoppage time when Raul Asencio and Rodrygo were both dismissed. The Spanish giants ultimately finished ninth and were drawn against Inter in the playoffs, while Benfica secured a meeting with Bodo/Glimt — a side Mourinho previously faced during his time at Roma.
Elsewhere, Marseille threatened to edge Benfica out of qualification, but their hopes faded after a 3-0 defeat to Club Brugge, allowing the Portuguese side to progress.
The statistics underlined Benfica’s superiority, as they recorded 22 attempts on goal to Madrid’s 16, fashioned eight clear chances to Madrid’s three, and posted an expected goals total of 2.99 compared to 1.50.
The dramatic finish ensured a night that will live long in the memory for Mourinho, his squad, and the Benfica supporters.
Benfica and Real Madrid could still meet later in the tournament if they overcome Bodo/Glimt and Inter respectively, with the playoff ties scheduled across 16–18 February and 23–25 February.
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