Real Madrid were granted a swift rematch with Jose Mourinho’s Benfica in the draw for the Champions League playoff round on Friday, while reigning European champions Paris Saint-Germain will meet regional rivals Monaco.
In their last league round match on Wednesday, Benfica defeated Real 4-2, and goalie Anatoliy Trubin’s goal in the 98th minute proved crucial in helping the Portuguese team secure the final play-off position.
The two-leg Champions League play-off matches are scheduled for February.
Champions League Playoff Schedule
Benfica vs. Real Madrid
Bodo/Glimt vs. Inter
Monaco vs. PSG
Qarabag vs. Newcastle
Galatasaray vs. Juventus
Club Brugge vs. Atleti
Dortmund vs. Atalanta
Leverkusen against Olympiacos
When are the Champions League knockout games scheduled to take place?
The play-off round, which takes place over two legs on February 17–18 and February 24–25, 2026, marks the start of the Champions League knockout stage.
Additionally, the round of 16 will take place over two legs, with matches set for March 10–11 and March 17–18, 2026.
The competition then advances to the quarterfinals on April 7/8 and April 14/15, 2026, and the semi-finals on April 28/29 and May 5/6, 2026.
On May 30, 2026, the Champions League final will wrap up the 2025–2026 season.
