Benfica defeated Real Madrid 4-2 after Anatoliy Trubin netted a last-minute goal, igniting excitement among José Mourinho and the fans, and ensured their place in the Champions League play-offs.
Why Benfica Needed a Two-Goal Win — And How They Pulled It Off
The Estadio da Luz certainly lived up to its reputation on a thrilling Champions League evening as Benfica achieved one of the most sensational victories of the 2025-26 group-stage semifinals, defeating Real Madrid 4-2 in remarkable style.
Aware that a two-goal win was essential to maintain their European aspirations in the expanded 36-team format, Benfica gave their all on the field — and achieved their miracle in the most unexpected manner possible.
Kylian Mbappe put Real Madrid ahead, looking to end the match quickly. Benfica fought back with determination and confidence—as Andreas Schjelderup and Vangelis Pavlidis brought the hosts back to parity.
Then arrived the instant that will be remembered forever in Lisbon legend.
In the 98th minute, while Benfica required one more goal, goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin rushed forward for a set piece.
The tall Ukrainian soared above all and directed a header into the goal. Disorder ensued. Benfica secured a victory by two goals. Certification was obtained.
The crowd roared — yet the cameras focused on José Mourinho.
In fitting scenes for the moment, the Benfica coach dashed along the sideline, jumped into a ball boy’s embrace, and celebrated exuberantly before facing the cheering audience.
After that, Mourinho continued to absorb the entire experience.
“I often feel emotional.” “I believe it was warranted,” he stated. “For Benfica, defeating Real Madrid brings immense prestige.” “For the players and the club, it’s something incredible.”
Mourinho confessed he hadn’t recognized at first that 3-2 would not suffice.
“When I heard we required another goal, to be honest, I felt annoyed,” he chuckled. “I wondered, ‘Why wasn’t I informed just moments earlier?’”
It marked Trubin’s initial goal in professional football, though his manager wasn’t entirely taken aback.
“Mourinho affirmed that we were confident in his abilities.” “He came close to scoring a couple of weeks back.” “The large man has the ability.”
On a night of glory, disorder, and classic Mourinho drama, Benfica carved their legacy into the records of Champions League history.
Man United Consider Michael Carrick as Caretaker After Amorim Exit
January 12, 2026
Michael Carrick is in advanced discussions to take over as Manchester United’s caretaker head coach following Ruben Amorim’s dismissal, and Solskjaer has also been interviewed. Old Trafford might soon be seeing the return of another well-known figure. Various sources indicate that ex-Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick is leading the race to become caretaker head coach, as the club seeks stability
How Did the Cavaliers Accidentally Score for the Timberwolves?
January 12, 2026
Nae’Qwan Tomlin of the Cleveland Cavaliers unintentionally directed a jump ball into his own hoop, giving the Minnesota Timberwolves two points in a 146–134 victory for the Cavs. The Cleveland Cavaliers might have triumphed over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday night — yet for one strange instance, they also tallied points for the rival team. In a moment likely unprecedented
28,000 Runs in 624 Innings: Virat Kohli Overtakes Sachin Tendulkar
January 12, 2026
Virat Kohli Overtakes Sachin Tendulkar | On Sunday, during the first ODI against New Zealand at the Kotambi International Stadium (BCA) in Vadodara, Virat Kohli achieved 28,000 international runs. He became the quickest player to reach the milestone, doing so in 624 innings. The former record was set by Sachin Tendulkar, who achieved the milestone in 644 innings. Kohli stepped
“I Don’t Feel Good About It”: Virat Kohli Calls Out Crowd Cheering Indian Wickets
January 12, 2026
Virat Kohli voiced his unease over fans celebrating Rohit Sharma’s dismissal, noting he witnessed similar behavior towards MS Dhoni and feels ‘uncomfortable with it’. Virat Kohli stated on Sunday (January 11) that he ‘doesn’t feel comfortable’ when the home fans cheer and celebrate an Indian player getting out, merely to witness the legend come to bat. The identical situation occurred
Where Did Daniil Medvedev Win His 22nd Career Title?
January 12, 2026
Daniil Medvedev triumphed at the Brisbane International, securing his 22nd career title in a distinct 22nd city. Pitbull may need to clear some space — tennis has a fresh Mr. Worldwide, and he’s called Daniil Medvedev. World No. 13 Medvedev began 2026 in impressive fashion, maneuvering and battling his way to the Brisbane International title and further enhancing his expanding
How Did Endrick Perform on His Lyon Debut? One Goal, One Statement
January 12, 2026
Endrick dazzled in his Lyon debut, netting the crucial goal against Lille in the Coupe de France and propelling Lyon to the round of 16. Endrick quickly caught France’s attention. On a chilly evening in northern France, the 19-year-old Brazilian scored on his debut for Lyon, appearing at the far post to secure a 2–1 Coupe de France victory against
Why Macclesfield vs Crystal Palace Will Be Remembered as the Greatest FA Cup Shock
January 11, 2026
Macclesfield shocked Palace 2-1, marking the first time a non-league team has knocked out FA Cup champions. The 117-place gulf is currently the biggest disparity ever bridged in FA Cup history. Sixth-tier Macclesfield FC achieved the most remarkable upset in the tournament’s history, eliminating defending champions Crystal Palace 2-1, causing a stir in English football. A non-league team had never
Who Won the United Cup Semi-Final Between Poland and USA?
January 11, 2026
Poland narrowly defeated the USA 2-1 in Sydney to secure a spot in the United Cup final, as Kawa and Zielinski clinched the win. Switzerland defeated Belgium 2-1, with Belinda Bencic in the lead. Also Read | How Did Macclesfield Beat Crystal Palace in the FA Cup? United Cup 2026: Poland Knock Out Defending Champions USA Poland secured their spot
How Did Macclesfield Beat Crystal Palace in the FA Cup?
January 11, 2026
John Rooney’s Macclesfield shocked Crystal Palace 2-1 in the FA Cup, resulting in Wayne Rooney feeling emotional and proud as his brother’s team achieved history at Moss Rose. Wayne Rooney struggled to hold back tears as his younger brother engineered one of the biggest surprises in FA Cup history. John Rooney’s Macclesfield, a mid-table team from the sixth division, shocked
Graeme Smith Wishes South Africa Can Beat India in Home T20 World Cup
January 11, 2026
Graeme Smith is optimistic that South Africa will triumph over India in the T20 World Cup final hosted at home, supporting SA20 as an ideal preparation and commending the increasing depth of the Proteas in white-ball cricket. South Africa ranks among the World Champions after they astonished Australia in the World Test Championship last year to claim the mace in
1 thought on “Benfica vs Real Madrid 4-2: Full Result, Scorers, and Qualification Impact”