Real Madrid have been paired with José Mourinho’s Benfica in the UEFA Champions League play-offs following the conclusion of the draw on Friday, setting up another high-stakes European showdown between the two sides.
The matchup comes just days after Benfica dramatically pushed Madrid into the play-off round.
On Wednesday night, the Portuguese giants stunned the Spanish champions with a thrilling 4–3 victory, sealed by a last-minute diving header from Benfica’s goalkeeper.
The extraordinary goal completed a remarkable turnaround and forced Madrid to finish fifth, denying them automatic qualification.
Madrid will, however, be without key players Rodrygo and Raúl Asencio for the play-off fixture, after both were shown red cards in the dramatic encounter against Benfica.
Their absence is expected to pose a significant challenge for Carlo Ancelotti’s side as they seek a place in the round of 16.
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Elsewhere, the Champions League play-off fixtures have thrown up several mouthwatering ties.
Juventus will face Galatasaray, Paris Saint-Germain have been drawn against Monaco in an all-French clash, while Borussia Dortmund take on Atalanta.
Olympiacos will battle Bayer Leverkusen, Atlético Madrid are set to face Club Brugge, Inter Milan will meet Bodø/Glimt, and Newcastle United are drawn against Qarabag.
With European heavyweights and intriguing underdog stories across the board, the play-offs promise intense drama as teams fight for a place in the Champions League round of 16.