Real Madrid x Benfica: high-risk game at the Bernabéu with 1800 police officers

Real Madrid faces Benfica this Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Estádio Santiago Bernabéu, at The merengue team arrives with a minimum advantage of 1-0 obtained in the first leg, in Lisboa, a goal scored by Vinicius Júnior. The tie gained high tension due to incidents that occurred in the first game, including allegations of racial insults against the Brazilian striker and the expulsion of coach José Mourinho.

The clash was classified as high risk by Spanish authorities. Comissão Estatal against Violência, Racismo, Xenofobia and Intolerância in Desporto determined the adoption of reinforced security measures. Cerca of 1,800 troops were mobilized to guarantee order in the stadium and surrounding areas.

Real Madrid seeks to confirm its classification in front of its fans at home, after recent stumbles at Campeonato Espanhol that shook the team’s momentum. Benfica, despite being missing, travels with the intention of reversing the score and advancing in the European competition.

Reinforced security measures at Bernabéu

The security device includes strict control over ticket sales and physical separation between fans inside the stadium. Accesses receive intensified inspection to prevent incidents.

More than 4,200 Benfica fans are expected to attend Bernabéu with valid tickets purchased by the Portuguese club. UEFA regulations dictate that these tickets are restricted to a specific, separate area.

Authorities highlight the need for additional measures in games classified as high risk. Real Madrid follows protocols to prevent any type of discriminatory or violent behavior.

Context of the tie and incidents in the first leg

In the first leg, played on February 17 at Estádio of Luz, Real Madrid won 1-0.

UEFA activated the anti-racism protocol and provisionally suspended the Argentine striker from Benfica Prestianni. Apesar of the sanction, the player travels with the delegation to Madri.

José Mourinho received a red card during the match in Lisboa for complaints against the refereeing. The Portuguese coach is suspended and will not be on the bench in Bernabéu.

Team preparation and confirmed absences

Real Madrid counts on the support of the fans to overcome the minimal advantage and avoid surprises. The Merengue team is coming off irregular results in the domestic league, which increases the pressure to advance in the Champions League.

Kylian Mbappé is a major doubt due to recent physical problems. His absence could change the offensive scheme of the team led by Carlo Ancelotti or his assistant.

Benfica bets on resilience to seek a draw or victory that guarantees classification. Sem Mourinho in charge, the assistant assumes the technical role in the decisive match.

Actions against racism in the stadium

Santiago Bernabéu will display anti-racism mosaics and messages during the game. The initiative reinforces the club’s commitment against any form of discrimination.

Real Madrid prepares visible actions in the stands to promote respect and inclusion. Essas measures occur in response to recent episodes in the competition.

UEFA closely monitors crowd behavior during knockout matches. Qualquer infraction may result in additional sanctions for the clubs involved.

Expectations for the decisive duel

Bernabéu hosts the clash at 9pm local time (Madri time). The match promises high intensity, with Real Madrid needing to manage the result and Benfica seeking to explore counterattacks.

The winner of the tie will face Sporting or Manchester City in the round of 16. The teams arrive motivated by the opportunity to continue in the main European club competition.

The game gains extra relevance due to the recent history between the teams in the Champions group stage. Ambas the teams have already faced each other this season, with balanced results.