Real Madrid’s progression to the Champions League Round of 16 has been clouded by immediate concerns over defender Raul Asencio.

The young La Fabrica graduate was stretchered off during the high-stakes playoff return leg against Benfica, leaving fans and coaching staff anxious about his short-term availability.

The incident occurred in the second half when Asencio collided with teammate Eduardo Camavinga. The impact was severe enough to keep the defender grounded for five minutes as medical personnel attended to him.

Eventually, he was placed on a stretcher and substituted for David Alaba with fifteen minutes remaining on the clock.

This defensive blow came during a chaotic period for the Madrid backline, as Antonio Rudiger had also required medical attention moments earlier following a clash with Alvaro Carreras.

Despite the tension, Real Madrid managed to secure their spot in the next round, with Vinicius Jr. netting a late winner to seal a 2-1 victory on the night (3-1 on aggregate).

Following the match, manager Alvaro Arbeloa provided a cautious but optimistic update. He confirmed that Asencio was taken directly to the hospital for evaluation, noting that while the “tremendous” blow appeared to be neck-related, early indications suggest it may not be a long-term injury.

Real Madrid Rocked as Raul Asencio Hospitalized After UCL Collision

While the club awaits a definitive medical readout on Asencio, Arbeloa is already juggling a thinning squad.

The manager revealed that Kylian Mbappe was a late withdrawal from the lineup due to fitness concerns.

Arbeloa noted that the Frenchman would need “days or weeks” to recover, placing even more leadership responsibility on the shoulders of Vinicius Jr. and Aurelien Tchouameni, the latter of whom drew high praise for his spectacular performance and equalizing goal.

The timing of these injuries is particularly challenging as the knockout stages intensify.

The technical staff now faces a “tactical squeeze,” needing to integrate veteran options like Alaba while waiting for the green light on their younger prospects.

Quick Match Breakdown:

• The Incident: Raul Asencio down for 5 minutes; stretchered off after colliding with Camavinga.
• The Diagnosis: Manager suspects a neck issue; hospital tests pending.
• The Result: 2-1 win (3-1 aggregate) vs. Benfica; Round of 16 secured.
• Squad News: Mbappe remains sidelined; Tchouameni and Vinicius Jr. stepped up as leaders.