Alvaro Arbeloa’s Real Madrid secured their place in the UEFA Champions League round of 16 after defeating SL Benfica 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu.
It was a professional performance on the night, enough to get the job done, but the real challenge may still lie ahead.
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With the playoffs now upon us, Real Madrid were among the final teams to confirm their spot in the next stage of Europe’s biggest competition.
However, under the revised Champions League format introduced last season by UEFA, the pathway to the final is more structured and predictable.
Real Madrid’s possible opponents
Unlike previous editions, where the draw was completely open, the new system means that matchups in both the playoffs and the round of 16 are influenced by league phase standings.
Because of their position, Real Madrid already know they can face only one of two possible opponents in the next round.
The most intimidating option on paper is Manchester City. Although Pep Guardiola’s side narrowly missed out on direct qualification to the round of 16 and had to go through the playoff route, their recent form has been impressive.
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As such, City are currently enjoying a strong run, with seven wins and one draw in their last eight matches.
The alternative opponent is Sporting CP. While perhaps less glamorous than Manchester City, Sporting have shown throughout the competition that they are disciplined and dangerous.
They may not carry the same global spotlight, but underestimating them would be a mistake.
Real Madrid will not have to wait long to discover their fate, as the official draw for the round of 16 is scheduled to take place on Friday, February 27.
That ceremony will determine whether Los Blancos are set for a heavyweight clash against Guardiola’s City or a tactical battle with Sporting.
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