Real Madrid are set to face Benfica once again after the Champions League knockout playoff draw paired the two sides in a repeat of their recent league phase meeting. The draw was conducted at UEFA headquarters in Nyon and confirmed two legged ties scheduled to take place between February 17 and 25. Real Madrid finished ninth in the league phase standings, narrowly missing automatic qualification for the round of 16, while Benfica secured their place after a strong showing that included a dramatic late win over the Spanish side earlier this week. The upcoming encounter adds an extra layer of intrigue, given the proximity of their last meeting and the contrasting momentum both clubs carry into the decisive phase of the competition.
Benfica’s recent victory over Real Madrid played a pivotal role in shaping the playoff picture. In that match, the Portuguese side claimed a 4 2 win, capped by a late goal from goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin in stoppage time, a moment that underlined the unpredictability of the league phase format. The result left Real Madrid just outside the top eight, finishing one point behind Manchester City, who secured direct passage to the round of 16. For Real, the playoff represents an additional hurdle in their pursuit of European success, while Benfica will view the rematch as an opportunity to reinforce their credentials against one of the competition’s most decorated clubs.
The draw also produced several high profile matchups across Europe. Defending champions Paris Saint Germain were paired with fellow French side Monaco, setting up a domestic clash on the continental stage. Newcastle United were drawn against Qarabag, while Atletico Madrid will take on Club Brugge after narrowly missing a top eight finish. Elsewhere, Borussia Dortmund were matched with Atalanta, adding another competitive tie between teams seeking to regain consistency after mixed league phase campaigns.
Other notable pairings include Bayer Leverkusen facing Olympiacos once again after a recent defeat to the Greek champions, while Serie A leaders Inter Milan were drawn against Bodo Glimt. Juventus will meet Galatasaray in another fixture that brings together clubs with strong European histories. As the Champions League moves into its knockout playoff stage, the stakes rise significantly, with only eight teams advancing to join the top seeded sides in the round of 16. For Real Madrid and Benfica, the rematch stands out as one of the most closely watched ties, carrying both recent context and broader implications for their European ambitions.
