Real Madrid advanced to the UEFA Champions League round of 16 with a 2-1 win over Benfica, 3-1 on aggregate. Vinícius Júnior scored the 80th-minute winner, his fifth goal in five appearances, tying his career-best scoring streak. However, the team's defensive sloppiness and midfield disorganization raise serious doubts about their ability to progress deep into the knockout phase. Against a Benfica side creating 1.98 xG and pushing Madrid hard, Madrid's Thibaut Courtois made four key saves, including a crucial stop from Richard Ríos.

The win, secured despite Benfica's persistent pressure and Amar Dedic's constant harassment, highlights Vinícius's current form as Madrid's most reliable star, especially with Jude Bellingham absent until April and Kylian Mbappé injured. Yet, this performance against a mid-table Benfica offers little reassurance for the competition's tougher battles ahead.