Real Madrid need a win to consolidate themselves in the top 4 of the league phase, but just before half time, they have been pegged back not long after scoring the opening goal of the Champions League encounter with Benfica.

It has been a tough opening 30 minutes for Alvaro Arbeloa’s side, with Benfica having had numerous chances to score. Thibaut Courtois has been a wall at the back, and heroics have helped Los Blancos ensure that they are the ones to break the deadlock.

It’s a familiar source for the goal, with Kylian Mbappe heading home a delightful cross from centre-back Raul Asencio.

🚨🚨| GOAL: KYLIAN MBAPPE IS AT IT AGAIN!!!

Benfica 0-1 Real Madrid

— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) January 28, 2026

8 games. 12 goals. Kylian Mbappé has been ELECTRIC in the #UCL league phase. ⚡️

— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) January 28, 2026

However, Real Madrid were only ahead for seven minutes, with Andreas Schjelderup heading the ball through Courtois’ legs for Benfica’s equalising goal.

🚨🚨| GOAL: BENFICA HAVE EQUALIZED!!

Benfica 1-1 Real Madrid

— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) January 28, 2026

Andreas Schjelderup pulls back an equaliser for Benfica 👀

📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) January 28, 2026

Real Madrid need to finish in the top 4 to ensure favourable dynamics for their forthcoming knockout round ties, but as things stand, they are only 5th, so a win is needed in Lisbon.