Fiery clashes in the Champions League Round of 16

February 27, 2026 / 8:35 PM

Sharjah 24 – AFP: The draw for the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, held on Friday in Nyon, Switzerland, produced several high-profile matchups, headlined by Real Madrid of Spain facing Manchester City of England in the most anticipated clash.

Real Madrid vs Manchester City headlines the draw

The record 15-time champions Real Madrid were paired with Manchester City in what has become a modern classic in Europe’s premier club competition.

A growing European rivalry

The two sides have met 11 times since the 2019–2020 season and 15 times overall since their first encounter in the 2012–2013 group stage. Real Madrid have won six matches, City five, while four games ended in draws.

PSG face Chelsea test

In another standout tie, defending champions Paris Saint-Germain will take on Chelsea in a challenging encounter.

More English-Spanish showdowns

The draw also produced two additional English-Spanish clashes, with Barcelona facing Newcastle, and Atlético Madrid meeting Tottenham.

Bayern, Arsenal and other key matchups

Bayern Munich will play Atalanta, the last remaining Italian side in the competition, while Premier League leaders Arsenal face Bayer Leverkusen.

Meanwhile, Liverpool will meet Galatasaray, who defeated them 1-0 in Istanbul during the group stage. Surprise package Bodø/Glimt, who eliminated last season’s runners-up Inter Milan, will face Sporting Lisbon.

Match dates

The first-leg matches are scheduled for March 10 and 11, with the return legs set for March 17 and 18.