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Juventus Defeat Benfica 2-0 To Clinch Playoff Berth, Keep Direct Route Alive

The result secures Juventus a playoff place under the league‑phase format, leaving Benfica needing a win over Real Madrid plus help.

Overview

  • Second‑half strikes from Khéphren Thuram and Weston McKennie delivered the points in Turin.
  • Benfica squandered a lifeline when Vangelis Pavlidis slipped during an 82nd‑minute penalty and shot well wide.
  • Juventus moved to 12 points and guaranteed at least a playoff spot, remaining one point off the top‑eight cutoff for direct last‑16 entry.
  • Benfica stayed on six points in 29th place and now must beat Real Madrid at home and rely on favorable results to keep hopes alive.
  • Next Wednesday’s finale sends Juventus to Monaco with direct qualification still possible, as José Mourinho lamented his team’s lack of finishing.