Real Madrid travel to face Benfica at the Estádio da Luz under greater tension than usual. The challenge is not only the intensity of the encounter in Lisbon, but also the disciplinary threat hanging over several key players ahead of the return leg.

Up to three members of the squad are just one yellow card away from suspension, a situation that raises concern within the coaching staff given the importance of those players in the overall structure of the team.

For the trip to Portugal, Madrid already have notable absentees. Rodrygo and Asencio are unavailable after seeing red in the final group stage match. Jude Bellingham and Éder Militão also remain sidelined as they continue their recovery work at Valdebebas.

In this delicate context, names such as Huijsen, Carreras, and Aurélien Tchouaméni must tread carefully. A booking would automatically rule them out of the decisive second leg and further complicate Álvaro Arbeloa’s plans.

Real Madrid must deliver a top-level performance in a demanding atmosphere while ensuring that avoidable suspensions do not damage their prospects in the return fixture.

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