Real Madrid Champions League fixtures: Group stage against Manchester City and Liverpool
Real Madrid will face one of the toughest group stages in recent years, after Thursday’s Champions League draw in Monaco placed the 14-time winners against Manchester City, Liverpool and Juventus. The 2025/26 campaign kicks off between September 16 and 18, with Los Merengues opening their journey as clear title contenders despite last season’s quarterfinal exit.
Real Madrid’s Group Stage Opponents
UEFA has not yet confirmed the order or dates of the fixtures, but Real Madrid now knows the eight rivals it will face:
- Manchester City (Home)
- Liverpool (Away)
- Juventus (Home)
- Benfica (Away)
- Olympique Marseille (Home)
- Olympiacos (Away)
- Monaco (Home)
- Kairat (Away)
The marquee clash will be the meeting with Manchester City, a repeat of the 2022 Champions League final, when Real Madrid lifted the trophy in Paris.
Merengues Seek Redemption
Despite being the tournament’s most decorated club, Real Madrid fell short last season, bowing out in the quarterfinals against Arsenal. The setback has only fueled anticipation that Carlo Ancelotti’s side will come back stronger, especially with new signings bolstering the squad depth.
Key Dates for the Champions League
- Group stage starts: September 16–18, 2025
- Final group games: January 28, 2026
- Round of 16 draw: Early February 2026
With eight group fixtures now confirmed, the mission is clear: secure early qualification to avoid last-minute drama and keep momentum heading into the knockout stages.
