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Sports Illustrated
Sports Illustrated
Sport
Amanda Langell

Why Real Madrid’s Champions League Playoff Draw Is Trickier Than It Looks

Real Madrid will face off with Benfica in the Champions League knockout phase playoffs, a matchup that could end in redemption or complete humiliation.

The 15-time European champions sat comfortably in third of the league phase standings ahead of Matchday 8, needing a win against José Mourinho’s side to automatically qualify for the round of 16. A draw would also have solidified a top-eight finish, given Los Blancos’ mighty goal difference.

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