"Both sides are in need of a win if they are achieve their contrasting aims at this stage, with Benfica facing elimination from competing on the continent this season. Al Jazeera Sport takes a look at a tie that has so much riding on it, including some small personal pride for one of Real's most successful coaches. Real have endured a turbulent season, with their coach Xabi Alonso sacked after only seven months in charge,"
"but a serious challenge can still be mounted for a Spanish and European double. Los Blancos find themselves hot on the heels of Barcelona in La Liga, having briefly claimed top spot when they beat Villarreal on Saturday, only for their rivals to reclaim the summit on Sunday. In the Champions League, a draw may be enough to secure their automatic passage to the last 16, but only a win will guarantee it."
Benfica host Real Madrid at Estadio da Luz on Wednesday, January 27 at 20:00 GMT with Jose Mourinho managing Benfica against his former club. Both teams require a positive result for contrasting objectives: Benfica face elimination from the Champions League while Real can secure passage with a draw though a win guarantees qualification. Real endured a turbulent season with coach Xabi Alonso sacked after seven months and remain close to Barcelona in La Liga. Benfica sit 29th of 36 UCL teams, two points outside the 16 playoff spots and hampered by a minus-four goal difference. Al Jazeera Sport will provide buildup from 17:00 GMT ahead of text commentary.
Read at www.aljazeera.com
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