The road to the Round of 16 is set. UEFA has officially drawn the Champions League knockout playoffs, featuring a mouth-watering rematch between Real Madrid and Benfica and an all-French clash between PSG and Monaco.
The Headline Act: Benfica vs. Real Madrid
Just days after their legendary encounter at the Estádio da Luz, destiny has brought Benfica and Real Madrid together again. The Portuguese side stunned the world this week with a 4-2 victory, sealed by an unbelievable 98th-minute goal from goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin.
However, Los Blancos will be seeking revenge under difficult circumstances. Carlo Ancelotti will be without Rodrygo and Raúl Asencio, both suspended following their late red cards in Lisbon. Can the 15-time champions survive the Eagles’ nest once more?
PSG’s Familiar Foe
The reigning champions, Paris Saint-Germain, find themselves in a familiar “Ligue 1” scenario. Luis Enrique’s side will face AS Monaco for a place in the last 16. Having eliminated Brest at this stage last season, the Parisians are favorites, but Monaco’s recent form makes this one of the most unpredictable ties of the round.
The Full Playoff Draw (Matches: Feb 17/18 & 24/25)
The draw in Nyon produced several intriguing matchups, including a high-octane clash in Germany and a huge opportunity for Newcastle United:
- Monaco vs. PSG: A tactical battle between French heavyweights.
- Benfica vs. Real Madrid: The “Trubin Rematch.”
- Borussia Dortmund vs. Atalanta: Two of Europe’s most exciting attacking sides.
- Qarabag vs. Newcastle: The Magpies travel to Azerbaijan as clear favorites.
- Galatasaray vs. Juventus: A hostile atmosphere awaits the Bianconeri in Istanbul.
- Club Brugge vs. Atlético Madrid: Simeone’s men look to avoid a Belgian upset.
- Bodø/Glimt vs. Inter Milan: The Italian giants face a freezing test in Norway.
- Olympiacos vs. Bayer Leverkusen: Xabi Alonso’s side heads to Piraeus.
Key Dates for Your Diary
- First Legs: February 17th & 18th, 2026.
- Second Legs: February 24th & 25th, 2026.
- The Prize: A spot in the Round of 16 against the top-seeded group winners.
Wilson Gaspar is a football analyst covering the UEFA Champions League, focusing on match previews, tactical reviews, and the performance of Europe’s top clubs throughout the competition.
