Real Madrid draw Benfica in Champions League playoff

January 30, 2026 / 7:45 PM

Sharjah24: Real Madrid will renew their clash with Benfica in the playoff round of UEFA Champions League qualifying for the last 16, just three days after their dramatic meeting in Lisbon, following Friday's draw.

The Spanish giants were paired with the Portuguese side once again, while French champions Paris Saint-Germain were drawn against domestic rivals Monaco in another headline tie.

Madrid–Benfica rematch

The draw sets up a quick rematch between Real Madrid and Benfica, after Benfica defeated Madrid 4–2 in Lisbon earlier this week. That result denied Madrid automatic qualification and sent them into the playoff round, while Benfica secured the final playoff spot on goal difference, aided by goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin’s late goal.

Madrid finished ninth in the league standings, one point behind the teams that qualified directly for the last 16. Should Carlo Ancelotti’s side overcome Benfica, they could face Manchester City in the next round, depending on the draw scheduled for February 27.

High-profile European ties

In France, Paris Saint-Germain will face Monaco, repeating an all-French scenario from last season’s competition. Elsewhere, Inter Milan face Bodo Glimt, Juventus take on Galatasaray, and Borussia Dortmund meet Atalanta.

First-leg matches will be played on 17 and 18 February, with return fixtures scheduled for 24 and 25 February.