UCL Round of 16: Real Madrid and Manchester City Set for Fifth Straight Knockout Battle

The UEFA Champions League Round of 16 lineup is now confirmed, setting the stage for a series of blockbuster encounters across Europe.

At the center of attention is yet another heavyweight clash between Real Madrid and Manchester City. This marks the fifth straight season both clubs will meet in the knockout rounds, underlining a growing modern rivalry in the competition. Their recent meetings have swung both ways — Madrid advanced in 2022, City responded in 2023, Los Blancos edged through on penalties in 2024, and last season Madrid knocked City out in the Round of 16. Earlier in this campaign, City claimed a 2-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabéu during the league phase.

Another standout fixture will see Paris Saint-Germain take on Chelsea in a rematch of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final, where the London side cruised to a 3-0 win over the French champions.

Arsenal and Bayern Munich, who topped the league phase standings, have been drawn against Bayer Leverkusen and Atalanta respectively. Meanwhile, surprise package Bodo/Glimt of Norway will battle Sporting Lisbon as they continue their remarkable run.

The remaining English representatives also face daunting tasks. Newcastle United go head-to-head with Barcelona, Liverpool square off against Galatasaray led by Victor Osimhen, and Tottenham Hotspur meet Atletico Madrid in another mouthwatering tie.

The first-leg fixtures are scheduled for March 10 and 11, with the return legs set to take place the following week.