India, Jan 29 : Real Madrid’s hopes of a direct passage to the Champions League last 16 were dashed after a dramatic 98th-minute header from Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin in Lisbon. The victory saw Benfica qualify for the knockout phase play-offs, while Los Blancos finished ninth and will face either Benfica or Bodo/Glimt in a play off to secure their spot.
The final matchday of the league stage featured high drama across Europe. Kylian Mbappe’s record-breaking 13th goal of the campaign proved insufficient for his side, leaving them outside the top 24 until Benfica’s stoppage-time heroics sealed Madrid’s play-off fate.
Top Eight Finishes and Key Highlights:
Barcelona recovered from an early deficit to defeat Copenhagen 4-1, securing a top eight spot with second half goals from Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Marcus Rashford.
Sporting CP claimed a dramatic last gasp victory in Bilbao, thanks to Alisson Santos’ stoppage time winner.
English Clubs Dominate: Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham, and Manchester City all advanced to the round of 16, with Arsenal completing a perfect league stage with eight wins from eight matches. Chelsea also progressed directly after a comeback against Napoli.
Inter Milan secured a 2-0 win over Dortmund, ensuring their place in the knockout stages.
Key Performances:
Liverpool thrashed Qarabag 6-0, with goals from Alexis Mac Allister, Florian Wirtz, Mohamed Salah, Hugo Ekitiké, and Federico Chiesa.
Tottenham earned a 2-0 win in Frankfurt, while Manchester City and Chelsea won convincingly to progress directly.
The league phase concluded with intense drama, surprise outcomes, and a mix of record-breaking performances, setting the stage for a thrilling knockout phase in the Champions League.