Benfica secured their place in the UEFA Champions League last 16 after a tense 3-3 draw against Monaco on Tuesday night. The Portuguese side advanced with a narrow 4-3 aggregate victory in the play-off round, surviving a dramatic encounter at the Estádio da Luz in Lisbon.
Monaco, determined to overturn their first-leg deficit, twice took the lead in the match. Their attacking intent was evident from the start, putting Benfica under constant pressure. However, the home side refused to back down, fighting their way back each time.
The French club nearly forced extra time, but Benfica’s midfielder Orkun Kokcu delivered a crucial goal in the 84th minute to level the match. His strike ensured that Benfica held on to their aggregate advantage, dashing Monaco’s hopes of a comeback.
With this result, Benfica now move on to the Champions League last 16, where they will face a challenging opponent—either Barcelona or Liverpool. The upcoming fixture promises to be another intense battle as the Portuguese giants aim to continue their European journey.
