The Champions League playoff between Benfica and Real Madrid is set for Tuesday, offering fans a rematch after a dramatic group stage encounter. Here’s a breakdown of where, when, and how to watch the match, including options for streaming from abroad.
Match Details and Context
Benfica and Real Madrid will face off in Lisbon for the first leg of this playoff series. The stakes are high; Benfica secured an unexpected win over Real Madrid just weeks ago, a result that forced the Spanish giants into this extra qualification round. This match is significant because it determines which team advances to the round of 16 in Europe’s most prestigious club competition.
Real Madrid, despite the earlier setback, has since rebounded with three consecutive La Liga wins, currently leading the Spanish standings. The game kicks off at 3 p.m. ET (12 p.m. PT) for US viewers, 8 p.m. GMT for those in the UK, and 7 a.m. AEDT for Australian audiences on Wednesday.
Where to Watch by Region
Here’s how fans can tune in across key regions:
- United States: The match will air exclusively on Paramount Plus. The platform now includes a multiview option, allowing simultaneous streaming of up to four matches.
- United Kingdom: Select Champions League games, including this one, are available via Amazon Prime Video.
- Canada: DAZN Canada holds exclusive broadcast rights for all Champions League matches.
- Australia: Stan Sport is the sole provider of live Champions League coverage in Australia.
Streaming Without Restrictions: Using a VPN
For viewers facing blackout restrictions or those traveling abroad, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can provide access. VPNs encrypt your internet traffic and allow you to virtually change your location, bypassing regional blocks. This is a legal workaround in most countries, provided you have a valid subscription to the streaming service.
ExpressVPN is a recommended option, praised for its speed and reliability. Using a VPN can also prevent internet service providers from throttling your bandwidth during peak streaming times.
“A VPN isn’t just about accessing restricted content; it’s also about ensuring a stable and private viewing experience.”
Additional Notes
Streaming services may terminate accounts if they detect unauthorized circumvention of blackout restrictions, so proceed with caution. If you’re looking for other VPN deals, many providers offer discounted long-term plans.
This playoff clash between Benfica and Real Madrid promises a thrilling encounter, and with the right streaming setup, fans worldwide can ensure they don’t miss a moment.
