Real Madrid will once again have to take the long route in the Champions League.
Just like last season, Los Blancos failed to secure a top-eight finish in the competition’s first phase, ending the league stage in ninth place. That position leaves Alvaro Arbeloa’s side outside the automatic qualification spots for the Round of 16.
As a result, Madrid will now be forced into the playoff round. However, finishing ninth does provide one important advantage: Real Madrid will play the second leg of the playoff tie
at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Benfica or Bodø/Glimt Await in the Playoffs
Real Madrid’s playoff opponent will be determined in Friday’s draw, with the club set to face either Benfica or Bodø/Glimt. Madrid will enter the draw knowing their potential opponents ahead of time, but will still have to wait to learn which team they will actually be paired against.
Possible Round of 16 Matchup: Sporting or Manchester City
If Real Madrid successfully advance through the playoffs, the next hurdle could be significant. In the Round of 16, Madrid would be drawn against either Sporting Lisbon or Manchester City, setting up the possibility of a marquee knockout matchup.
UEFA Knockout Draw Scheduled for February 27
After the playoff round is completed, UEFA will conduct the next draw on February 27, which will map out the remainder of the tournament bracket. That draw will include:
- the eight teams that qualify via the playoffs, and
- the eight clubs that finished in the top eight of the league stage.
UEFA will draw the Round of 16, quarter-finals, and semi-finals at the same time.
The Round of 16 will take place in March:
- First legs: March 10–11
- Second legs: March 17–18
