Kylian Mbappe has been ruled out of Real Madrid's crucial UEFA Champions League playoff second leg against Benfica on Wednesday due to a recurring left knee injury. The Los Blancos are now left without their star forward for the high-stakes match at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Mbappe won’t play in Real Madrid’s UCL decider against Benfica
Real Madrid has announced their squad list for the game tonight, and Mbappe was not in it for the clash against Benfica. Outlets like ESPN and L'Equipe had already reported doubt about the World Cup winner’s availability for the European clash on Wednesday.
The French superstar, who has scored an impressive 13 goals in just 8 Champions League appearances this season, experienced significant pain during training on Tuesday, forcing him to leave the session early and undergo tests that deemed his participation impossible
The issue stems from a persistent ligament problem dating back to December, which has already caused him to miss several games despite efforts to manage it. Meanwhile, the fixture between the two sides is highly crucial as it is the decisive second leg of their UCL knockout phase playoff.
Alvaro Arbeloa’s squad held a narrow 1-0 aggregate lead from the first leg in Lisbon, all thanks to VinIcius Junior's goal. Hence, a win or draw advances them to the round of 16, while Benfica must win by at least two goals or by one to force extra time and to progress. With Mbappe out, Jose Mourinho's men would get an extra advantage against the injury-hit team.