Madrid's Champions League destiny in their own hands as Benfica showdown looms
Real Madrid's commanding victory over Monaco puts them in pole position for direct qualification to the last 16, with only Benfica standing in their way.
Carlo Ancelotti’s men sit pretty in second place after Monaco rout, with direct qualification to the last 16 now firmly within reach.
The boys from the Bernabéu are absolutely cruising in Europe. After putting Monaco to the sword, Real Madrid now find themselves sitting pretty in second spot in the league phase table with qualification for the knockouts all but secured.
Current standings
Tuesday’s results have left Madrid in a strong position with 15 points in the bank. That said, several heavyweights including Bayern, Atalanta, Atlético and Liverpool still have matches to play in this penultimate round, which could make the race for those coveted top 8 spots even tighter.
What’s particularly encouraging for Madrid fans is how they’ve capitalised on slip-ups from both PSG and Manchester City. Those two were expected to be right up there, but Madrid have shown once again why they’re the dog’s dinner when it comes to Champions League pedigree.
The Benfica challenge
Madrid’s final hurdle in the league phase comes against José Mourinho’s Benfica. The Portuguese outfit face a crucial clash with Juventus tomorrow which could determine whether they still have a chance of reaching the play-in round.
Regardless of that result, Madrid will travel to Lisbon on Wednesday, January 28th for what promises to be a proper European night. The match kicks off at 21:00 local time as part of a mammoth Champions League schedule featuring 18 simultaneous games.
What’s at stake
- Direct qualification to the last 16 (avoiding the play-in round)
- Potential top seed status for the knockout draw
- Maintaining momentum heading into the business end of the competition
For Ancelotti’s men, the equation is simple: take care of business against Benfica and they’ll secure their place among Europe’s elite eight without having to navigate the additional play-in round that awaits teams finishing 9th through 24th.
After their commanding performance against Monaco, you’d have to fancy the Spanish giants to get the job done in Portugal and continue their pursuit of yet another European crown.