Champions League: with Mbappé and Vinicius, Real Madrid’s group faces Benfica

As the Champions League group stage comes to a close, Real Madrid is preparing for a high-intensity trip to Benfica’s pitch this Wednesday in Lisbon. A crucial meeting for the Merengues, still engaged in the battle for the top spots in the standings and eager to approach the next phase of the competition from a position of strength.

For this European fixture, Álvaro Arbeloa has chosen to rely on an almost complete squad, while opening the door to youth. Two talents from La Fábrica, Jorge Cestero (2006) and Lorenzo Aguado (2007), are included in the list of call-ups, symbolizing the trust placed in Madrid’s academy.

Offensively, the Madrid arsenal impresses. Vinícius Jr, Kylian Mbappé, Rodrygo, Brahim Díaz, Mastantuono, and the young Gonzalo García make up the attacking line. In midfield, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga, Jude Bellingham, and Arda Güler are present to provide balance and rhythm to the game.

On the other hand, the defense will be missing several key players. Rüdiger, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ferland Mendy, Éder Militão, and Dani Carvajal are absent. In goal, Thibaut Courtois and Andriy Lunin are called up, offering solid guarantees.