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VAR Drama in Portugal: Real Madrid Survives Benfica Clash After Penalty Reversal

28 January 2026

VAR Drama in Portugal: Real Madrid Survives Benfica Clash After Penalty Reversal
Real Madrid and Benfica battle in a tense Champions League night in Portugal.

A fiery clash in Portugal.

Key moment

Benfica and Real Madrid clashed in a dramatic Champions League group game.

In the 16th minute, Benfica were awarded a penalty after a challenge involving Jude Bellingham.

VAR then led Italian referee Davide Massa to reverse the call, ruling no foul on Bellingham.

According to VAR, Bellingham reached the ball first, before any Benfica player, so play continued.

Group implications

Bottom line: the decision stood, and the match stayed tight.

Punchline: If VAR ever needs a coffee break, I'm free.

Punchline 2: My fantasy team would love a time machine for the offside flag.

Author

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened with the Benfica penalty call?

The penalty was awarded in the 16th minute, then overturned after VAR review.

Who officiated and reviewed the decision?

Italian referee Davide Massa and the VAR team reviewed the incident.

What was the final outcome of the incident?

The call was reversed; no foul on Bellingham and play continued.