Real Madrid draw Benfica, PSG get Monaco in UEFA Champions League playoffs

Al JazeeraEN 4 min read 100% complete by Kevin HandJanuary 30, 2026 at 01:36 PM

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The 2026 UEFA Champions League playoff draw has set Real Madrid against Benfica, while Paris Saint-Germain will face Monaco. Real Madrid was forced into the playoff round after a 4-2 defeat by Benfica in the league phase, with a late goal from Benfica's goalkeeper. This loss prevented Real Madrid from automatically qualifying for the round of 16. Benfica's victory was part of a remarkable recovery, as they moved from near elimination to the final playoff spot. The match also marks a reunion for Real Madrid with their former manager, Jose Mourinho, who is now coaching Benfica. The two-legged playoffs will determine which teams advance to the last 16.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

La Liga 30% Copa del Rey 30% Switzerland 40% Nyon 40% Lisbon 40% Anatoliy Trubin ×260% Monaco 60% Paris Saint-Germain 70% Jose Mourinho ×480% Real Madrid ×790% Benfica ×890% UEFA Champions League ×495%

Keywords

uefa champions league 100% playoff round 90% real madrid 80% benfica 80% jose mourinho 70% monaco 60% paris saint-germain 60% knockout phase 50% football 40%