What Happened
Real Madrid centre-back Raul Asencio was stretchered off the field wearing a neck brace during the Champions League match against Benfica on February 25, 2026. The incident occurred after a collision with teammate Eduardo Camavinga while attempting an aerial clearance in the second half. Medical personnel promptly attended to Asencio, who was replaced by David Alaba in the 77th minute.
Why It Matters
The injury raises concerns for Real Madrid as they navigate a crucial phase in the Champions League knockout round. Asencio’s performance had already been under scrutiny following a poor display in a previous La Liga match against Osasuna, where he was criticized for his defensive errors. His absence could further complicate the team’s defensive strategy, especially with Kylian Mbappe also sidelined due to a knee issue.
What’s Next
Real Madrid’s immediate focus will be on assessing Asencio’s condition and determining the extent of his injury. The team needs to avoid defeat in their Champions League campaign to progress to the next stage. With the knockout round intensifying, the club will be keen to ensure that their defensive lineup remains robust in the upcoming fixtures.
