Real Madrid received a massive boost on Monday as superstar forward Kylian Mbappé was officially cleared to start in Tuesday's high-stakes Champions League playoff first leg against Benfica. The French captain, who missed Saturday's La Liga victory over Real Sociedad as a precautionary measure due to knee discomfort, completed a full training session at the Estádio da Luz in Lisbon without issues. His return comes at a critical moment for Los Blancos, who are fighting to stay in Europe's elite competition after a shock drop to the knockout playoff round.

Mbappé Returns for "Do-or-Die" Clash in Lisbon

Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa confirmed the news during his pre-match press conference, ending days of speculation regarding his star striker's availability. "He is doing very well," Arbeloa told reporters. "We decided not to take risks [against Sociedad] so that he would be ready to start on Tuesday, and I can confirm that he will indeed start."

The stakes could not be higher. This fixture represents a rematch of the chaotic final group stage game just three weeks ago, where Benfica stunned the reigning European champions with a 4-2 victory. That defeat—punctuated by a dramatic stoppage-time goal from Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin—relegated Madrid to the playoff round and denied them automatic entry to the Round of 16. With Jude Bellingham sidelined due to a hamstring injury and both Rodrygo and Raul Asencio suspended following red cards in the previous meeting, Mbappé's presence is not just a luxury; it is a necessity for a depleted Madrid attack.

Mourinho vs. Arbeloa: The Master Meets the Apprentice

The tactical sideline battle adds a layer of intense narrative drama to the fixture. Benfica is managed by none other than José Mourinho, the legendary tactician who once managed Real Madrid—and Arbeloa himself—from 2010 to 2013. Mourinho has revitalized the Portuguese giants, leading them on a five-game unbeaten run and turning the Estádio da Luz into a fortress.

Speaking to the media, Mourinho rejected the idea that Benfica needs a "miracle" to repeat their previous victory but warned his squad that they are facing a "wounded animal."

"Beating Real Madrid once is hard; beating them twice is even harder," Mourinho said, displaying his trademark psychological mastery. "I know what it's like to face a big team that's been wounded. Their motivation is not just to eliminate Benfica, but to win the Champions League."

Tactical Breakdown: Counter-Attack vs. Possession

In their last encounter, Mourinho's Benfica exploited Madrid's high defensive line with ruthless efficiency on the counter-attack. With Arbeloa likely to dominate possession, the key battle will be in transition. Real Madrid will look to Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior to break down what is expected to be a disciplined, low-block defense set up by the "Special One."

Real Madrid Team News and Suspensions

Beyond the positive Kylian Mbappé injury update, the squad news is a mixed bag for the Spanish giants. The absence of Bellingham leaves a creative void in midfield, likely to be filled by Arda Güler or a deeper role for Federico Valverde. The suspensions of Rodrygo and Asencio further limit Arbeloa's attacking options off the bench.

Predicted Real Madrid XI: Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Rüdiger, Tchouaméni, Mendy; Camavinga, Valverde, Modric; Vinícius Jr, Mbappé, Brahim Díaz.

Benfica, meanwhile, are navigating their own crisis, missing several key players including Alexander Bah and Fredrik Aursnes due to injury. However, their home advantage and recent psychological edge make this one of the most unpredictable ties of the UCL 2026 knockout stage.

What to Expect: A Night of Redemption or Repeat?

Kickoff is scheduled for Tuesday, February 17, at 8:00 PM GMT. For Real Madrid, this is more than just a playoff; it is a fight to restore their reputation as the kings of Europe. For Benfica, it is a chance to prove that their 4-2 triumph was no fluke and to claim one of the biggest scalps in recent Champions League history.

With Mbappé back in the fold and Mourinho plotting another masterclass, the stage is set for a classic European night in Lisbon.