Real Madrid and Benfica are set to meet again very soon after the Champions League play-off draw confirmed an immediate reunion between the two sides.
The Spanish giants suffered a dramatic 4-2 defeat against Benfica on Wednesday in one of the most unforgettable matches of the tournament so far. Real Madrid were reduced to nine men during the game, making it even harder for them to hold on.
The match ended in stunning fashion when Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin scored a last-minute header deep into stoppage time. That incredible moment helped Benfica secure their place in the Champions League play-offs, knocking Marseille out of the competition.
The result also caused Real Madrid to slip down to ninth place in the league standings, meaning they missed out on automatic qualification for the Round of 16.
Now, the two clubs will face each other again in a high-stakes two-leg battle. Benfica will host the first leg at home before travelling to the famous Santiago Bernabeu for the return match.
Other Big Fixtures in the Champions League Play-offs
The Champions League knockout play-offs are filled with exciting matchups featuring some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
In the silver pathway, defending champions Paris Saint-Germain have been drawn against fellow French side Monaco in a thrilling Ligue 1 derby.
Elsewhere, Turkish giants Galatasaray will take on Italian powerhouse Juventus, while Borussia Dortmund face a tough challenge against Atalanta.
Newcastle Handed Long Trip in Blue Pathway
In the blue pathway, Premier League side Newcastle United have been drawn against Qarabag. Eddie Howe’s team will face a difficult away trip to Azerbaijan in mid-February.
Spanish club Atletico Madrid will play Belgian champions Club Brugge, while last season’s runners-up Inter Milan are set to face Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt.
The final tie in this pathway will see Bayer Leverkusen come up against Greek champions Olympiacos.
Full Champions League Knockout Play-offs Draw
- Monaco vs Paris Saint-Germain
- Galatasaray vs Juventus
- Benfica vs Real Madrid
- Borussia Dortmund vs Atalanta
- Qarabag vs Newcastle United
- Club Brugge vs Atletico Madrid
- Bodo/Glimt vs Inter Milan
- Olympiacos vs Bayer Leverkusen
