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The Digest:

Real Madrid have been drawn against Benfica in the UEFA Champions League second-round playoffs, a swift rematch following Benfica's stunning 4-2 victory over the Spanish giants on Wednesday. That final group stage loss, sealed by a stoppage-time header from Benfica's goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin, denied Madrid automatic qualification to the knockout phase. In other standout fixtures, Galatasaray, featuring Victor Osimhen, will play Juventus, while Ademola Lookman's Atalanta face Borussia Dortmund. Defending champions Paris Saint-Germain will meet AS Monaco in an all-French clash. The first legs are scheduled for February 17-18, with return fixtures a week later.

Key Points
  • The immediate rematch offers Real Madrid a chance for redemption but presents a high-risk hurdle against a confident Benfica side coached by José Mourinho.
  • It raises the stakes and intensity of the playoff round, transforming it from a formality into a must-watch, narrative-driven clash.
  • Madrid faces pressure to validate its status, while Benfica seeks to cement a giant-killing reputation and advance against the odds.
  • The draw highlights the competitive depth of this season's tournament, where traditional powerhouses must navigate perilous playoff ties.
  • The scheduling in mid-February provides limited time for tactical adjustment, favoring the team that can best harness momentum from the recent upset.

The playoffs are poised for high drama, headlined by a Madrid-Benfica revenge narrative and several other compelling cross-European encounters.

Sources: UEFA Champions League draw results, match reports