Real Madrid face Benfica rematch in Champions League play-off after Lisbon nightmare

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The UEFA Champions League knockout phase play-off draw, held today at the House of European Football, has delivered a blockbuster set of two-legged ties that promise high drama in February.

With the top eight teams from the league phase, led by Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Liverpool, and Tottenham, already secure in the round of 16, the 16 teams ranked 9th to 24th will battle it out over February 17-18 (first legs) and February 24-25 (second legs) for the remaining eight spots.

The draw produced several mouthwatering matchups, blending European heavyweights, domestic derbies, and intriguing underdog stories.

Among the standout ties are a revenge-fueled rematch between Real Madrid and Benfica, an all-French showdown between PSG and Monaco, and a clash of Italian giants in Juventus versus Galatasaray.

The Blockbuster: Real Madrid vs Benfica-A Bitter Rematch

The tie that has captured the most attention is Benfica versus Real Madrid, a direct sequel to the dramatic league-phase finale where José Mourinho’s Benfica stunned the 15-time champions 4-2 in Lisbon. Goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin’s stoppage-time header sealed Benfica’s advancement and dragged Real Madrid into the play-offs, costing them a direct route to the last 16.

Real Madrid, seeded and eager to restore pride, will travel to Portugal first before hosting the return at the Bernabéu. Mourinho’s tactical nous against his former club adds extra spice, with pundits calling it the tie of the round.

PSG vs Monaco: A French Derby with High Stakes

Reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain, who finished outside the top eight, face a tricky all-Ligue 1 battle against Monaco.

This domestic rivalry, could produce fireworks. PSG, as holders, are heavy favourites, but Monaco’s attacking flair makes this one to watch.

Other Key Ties

Galatasaray vs Juventus: Turkish powerhouse Galatasaray, riding high on recent form, take on Juventus in a clash of two clubs with rich European histories. Juventus will aim to leverage their experience against a Galatasaray side that thrives in big games.

Borussia Dortmund vs Atalanta: A battle of attacking football between Dortmund’s high-pressing style and Atalanta’s relentless offense.

Club Brugge vs Atlético Madrid: Diego Simeone’s gritty Atlético face Belgian champions Club Brugge, who could cause an upset with their counter-attacks.

Olympiacos vs Bayer Leverkusen: Greek giants Olympiacos meet last season’s Bundesliga winners Leverkusen.

Bodø/Glimt vs Inter Milan: Norwegian surprise package Bodø/Glimt, who upset bigger names in the league phase, host Inter in a David-vs-Goliath encounter.

Qarabağ vs Newcastle United: Azerbaijan’s Qarabağ host Newcastle, who will be favoured to progress despite the tricky away leg.

These play-offs add an extra layer of intensity to the revamped Champions League format, where only the top eight get a bye. Winners advance to the round of 16, drawn on February 27, with potential clashes against giants like Arsenal or Manchester City awaiting.

With revenge, rivalries, and redemption on the line, February’s play-offs could produce some of the season’s most memorable moments.