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Real Madrid vs. Benfica - Who are the best players to play for both clubs?
As Real Madrid and Benfica prepare to renew their rivalry in the second leg of their Champions League playoff round this week, football fans are set for a fascinating clash between two of Europe’s most storied clubs.
This first leg was another tie full of drama and sees Madrid take a 1-0 lead back to the Bernabeu for a final showdown of the season between these famous European clubs.
With both clubs boasting rich traditions and European pedigree, it’s worth revisiting some of the players who have worn both the white of Madrid and the red of Benfica with distinction over the years.
Angel Di Maria
Few names bridge these two giants quite like Angel Di Maria. The Argentine winger first made his mark in Europe with Benfica between 2007 and 2010, where his pace, creativity and work rate quickly made him one of the Primeira Liga’s brightest prospects.
After nearly 100 appearances and a reputation as a top assist provider in Portugal, Real Madrid snapped him up in 2010. At the Bernabeu, Di Maria became a key component of a formidable attacking unit, making 190 appearances and scoring 36 goals, helping Madrid to domestic and European success before eventually moving on to further stardom across Europe.
Jose Antonio Reyes
Jose Antonio Reyes is best remembered for his pace and flair on the wing.
The Spaniard had a spell at Real Madrid early in his career, showcasing his ability to beat defenders and create chances.
After successful periods elsewhere, his journey brought him to Benfica, where his experience and technical quality added another dimension to the Portuguese side. While neither spell was laden with silverware, Reyes’ ability to perform on big stages made him a memorable figure at both clubs.
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Fabio Coentrao
The left-back Fabio Coentrao combines defensive solidity with an attacking instinct that made him a fan favourite in Lisbon and Madrid.
At Benfica, Coentrao rose through the ranks before earning a move to Real Madrid in 2011. In the Spanish capital, he became part of multiple title-winning squads, regularly contributing with overlaps, crosses and defensive grit.
His years in Madrid solidified his reputation as one of Portugal’s top defenders of his generation, and his connection to Benfica ensures he remains fondly remembered on both sides.
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Javi Garcia
Midfielder Javi Garcia enjoyed a substantial period at Benfica after leaving Real Madrid, where his career began.
Garcia’s tenure in Lisbon was characterised by his combative presence in midfield and occasional vital goals, helping Benfica compete at the top of the Primeira Liga and in Europe.
His earlier years at Real Madrid laid the foundation for his professional growth, and his development into a dependable central midfielder made him a valuable asset for both clubs across different stages of his career.
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Javier Saviola
Javier Saviola brought flair and finishing prowess to both benches of this storied equation.
The Argentine forward had a prolific spell with Benfica, where he scored freely and became a key figure in attack. And while he is best remembered in Spain for his time with Barcelona, he enjoyed a brief stint at Real Madrid, where he showcased flashes of his exceptional dribbling and goal-scoring instincts.
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How to watch the Champions League in the USA on DAZN
Soccer fans in the US can watch the Champions League in Spanish language as part of their DAZN subscription package.
An annual upfront payment is $224.99 , while paying monthly for 12 months is $19.99 and also provides access to 185 fight nights a year across boxing, MMA, PFL, BKFC, Glory and much more.
CBS has coverage of every Champions League match in English language this season. You can get more details and subscribe to CBS's Champions League coverage here.
Fans can watch extra Champions League games in Spanish on ViX. A selection of those matches are also available on UNIMÁS and TUDN.
How to watch the Champions League in New Zealand on DAZN
Every Champions League game during the 2025-26 season is streamed in high definition and comes as part of a DAZN subscription.
An annual subscription costs $14.99 per month for 12 months and also provides access to 185 fight nights a year across boxing, MMA, PFL, BKFC, Glory and much more.
How to watch the Champions League in Canada on DAZN
Watch every game of the Champions League this season in Canada with a DAZN subscription.
There are three subscription options, each offering a different selection of sports. Access to every Champions League match is included in all three package offerings, ranging from $29.99 to $44.99 per month (for 12 months)
