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.
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