LONDON (AP) — Following last month’s epic Champions League showdown, Real Madrid and Benfica will meet again on Tuesday.
In the final round of the league, Benfica defeated Madrid 4-2, creating one of the most dramatic endings in league history.
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A goal from goalkeeper Anatoly Trubin in stoppage time ensured Benfica’s place in the playoffs. Madrid’s defeat, meanwhile, means the record 15-time European champions missed out on automatic qualification for the last 16.
The mastermind behind Benfica’s victory was former Madrid manager Jose Mourinho.
Now he has the chance to inflict more pain on his former club in the first leg of the playoffs at Benfica’s Stadium of Light.
“I don’t think Benfica will need a miracle to knock out Real Madrid,” Mourinho said, although he admitted his side would have to be close to perfect to advance.
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Defending champions Paris Saint-Germain will face Monaco in the playoffs on Tuesday. Galatasaray hosts Juventus and Dortmund hosts Atalanta.
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AP Soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer
