Real Madrid will face Benfica once again after Friday’s Champions League knockout playoff draw, setting up an immediate rematch just days after their dramatic defeat to the Portuguese side.
Immediate Rematch
Madrid finished ninth in the league phase, one point short of automatic qualification, and were forced into the playoffs after a shock 4-2 loss to Benfica on Wednesday. Goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin sealed that result with a stunning 98th-minute headed goal, condemning the Spanish giants to another meeting with the same opponents.
All-French Clash
Champions Paris Saint-Germain, who ended the league phase in 11th place, were drawn against Ligue 1 rivals Monaco. PSG failed to win their final three matches, while Monaco finished 21st, ensuring one French club will progress to the round of 16.
Other Key Ties
Newcastle United were paired with Azerbaijan’s Qarabag, while Atletico Madrid, who missed the top eight by three points, will take on Club Brugge. Borussia Dortmund faces Atalanta after both sides slipped out of the automatic qualification places following late defeats.
Repeat Encounters
Bayer Leverkusen will meet Olympiacos again after losing to the Greek champions earlier this month. Serie A leaders Inter Milan were drawn against Norway’s Bodo/Glimt, while Juventus complete the playoff line-up with a tie against Galatasaray.
Schedule
The two-legged playoff ties will be played between February 17 and 25, with the winners advancing to the Champions League round of 16.
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