Real Madrid will be without forward Rodrygo for their entire UEFA Champions League play-off tie against Benfica after the Brazilian was handed a two-match suspension by UEFA.
The European governing body confirmed on Monday, February 9, that Rodrygo was sanctioned for directing abusive language at match officials during Madrid’s chaotic 4–2 defeat to Benfica in their previous encounter. The incident was reviewed under UEFA regulations relating to verbal insults toward referees.
UEFA Confirms Two-Game Suspension
According to reports from GOAL, UEFA’s disciplinary committee imposed a two-match ban, automatically ruling Rodrygo out of both legs of the decisive play-off. Despite issuing a public apology after the match, the punishment was upheld, with no avenue for appeal at this stage.
The suspension comes at a particularly difficult time for Real Madrid, depriving head coach Álvaro Arbeloa of one of his most dynamic attacking options. Rodrygo’s pace, movement, and ability to influence tight European matches have been central to Madrid’s attacking approach this season.
Injury Concerns Deepen Madrid’s Problems
Rodrygo’s absence further compounds Madrid’s challenges, as Jude Bellingham is also unavailable due to injury. Losing two key attacking figures ahead of such a high-stakes tie significantly reduces Madrid’s firepower, even though they still enter the contest as favourites on paper.
Benfica Draw Confidence From Dramatic Previous Meeting
Benfica, meanwhile, will approach the tie with renewed confidence following their dramatic qualification for the play-offs less than two weeks ago—an outcome that came at Real Madrid’s expense.
In one of the most remarkable moments of this Champions League campaign, Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin emerged as an unlikely hero. With Benfica seeking to improve their goal difference during the league phase, Trubin joined a late set-piece despite his side already leading. Fredrik Aursnes delivered a precise free-kick, which Trubin headed past Thibaut Courtois in the 98th minute.
The goal sparked wild celebrations and ultimately proved decisive, allowing Benfica to secure the final play-off spot on goal difference and denying Real Madrid automatic qualification. The subsequent draw has now produced an immediate rematch, a development that has fueled intense debate among fans, some of whom have described the pairing as almost scripted.
Mourinho Faces Former Club With Psychological Edge
Benfica head coach José Mourinho will relish another opportunity to face his former club. With Real Madrid weakened by both suspension and injury, and Rodrygo watching from the stands, Benfica may feel they hold a psychological advantage heading into the tie.
Rodrygo and Transfer Speculation
Away from disciplinary matters, Rodrygo has also been linked with a potential move to Manchester City. Reports previously suggested Pep Guardiola is an admirer of the winger, although no formal bid was made during the January transfer window. City instead completed the signing of Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth.
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