Real Madrid CF defeated SL Benfica 2–1 to book their place in the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League. In the first leg, Vinícius Júnior inspired Madrid to a 1–0 victory, scoring the only goal of the match amid widespread controversy surrounding his performance. Heading into the second leg on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, the Brazilian once again proved decisive.
Vinícius struck in the 80th minute to secure the 2–1 win, continuing his run of influential performances in crucial fixtures. At halftime, with the game level at 1–1, Softfootball analysis highlighted Madrid’s high intensity, describing the first-half display as one of their best performances under new manager Álvaro Arbeloa.
Despite the absence of Kylian Mbappé due to injury, Madrid were widely expected to advance, largely because of Vinícius Jr’s leadership and attacking influence. Since Arbeloa’s arrival, the winger has taken greater responsibility in decisive matches, consistently stepping up when the team needs inspiration.
In the two Champions League titles Madrid have won since the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, Vinícius has played a central role. While Karim Benzema was instrumental, particularly in the first of those triumphs, Vinícius emerged as a driving force. Under former manager Carlo Ancelotti, he was widely regarded as Madrid’s standout performer in their second post-Ronaldo Champions League success.
