Will Kylian Mbappe play tonight for Real Madrid vs Benfica in Champions League 2025-26 play-offs second leg?

Kylian Mbappe’s Los Blancos are leading 1-0 from the first leg.

Estadio Bernabeu in the Spain’s capital city of Madrid will gear up to host a familiar face in the form of Jose Mourinho as Benfica gear up to face Real Madrid in the final leg of their UCL Playoffs. In the first leg, a solitary goal from Vinicius Jr saw Madrid gain a slight advantage ahead of the second leg.

The most decorated team in the history of this competition, Real Madrid, are just a clean sheet away from making it to the Round of 16 in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League. Amidst a series of injuries in the Los Blancos camp, the big question will be, will Kylian Mbappe feature in the UCL playoff game against Benfica?

Manager Alvaro Arbeola will be without the services of Eder Militao, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham. Mbappe’s presence or absence in this vital fixture can massively affect the dynamics. Let’s find out whether the French striker will play tonight or not.

Also Read: Preview: Real Madrid vs Benfica Prediction, lineups, betting tips & odds

Is Kylian Mbappe playing tonight against Benfica?

According to sources, Kylian Mbappe is set to miss the upcoming game after sustaining a left knee injury. This could be a massive blow for the home fans, especially at a time when Real Madrid are just a solitary goal ahead with more than ninety minutes of action remaining.

SL Benfica have previously crushed Real Madrid’s top-eight ambitions, and Mourinho will eye another upset against the former UCL winners, especially on his homecoming to the Bernabeu.

Kylian Mbappe has not only scored the maximum goals for Real Madrid, but also happens to be the top scorer in the UEFA Champions League with 13 goals and an assist in eight games. He even featured in Madrid’s recent LaLiga fixture against Osasuna.

All eyes will be on Alvaro Arbeola and the tactical changes he will make. Gonzalo Garcia will most likely replace Mbappe in the starting lineup. Garcia will be raring to go, all guns blazing to impress the home fans and propel the Madrid outfit to the UCL Round of 16.

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