The Champions League round of 16 is set to kick off this week, marking the debut of the tournament's new format that introduces a league phase and a playoff round. As the football world gears up for these thrilling encounters, attention turns to some of the most anticipated matchups. Real Madrid, often hailed as the "kings of Europe" with a record 15 Champions League titles, are set to face city rivals Atletico Madrid in what promises to be an electrifying encounter. Meanwhile, powerhouses Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool will battle it out in another last-16 clash.
Atletico Madrid, currently placed second in LaLiga just one point behind Barcelona and two ahead of Real Madrid, are aiming to make history by clinching their first Champions League title. Despite reaching the finals on three occasions, they have yet to secure the coveted trophy. The team remains at full strength, ready to challenge Real Madrid, who will be without key player Jude Bellingham due to suspension in the first leg. This crucial match will unfold at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.
In their previous encounters, Atletico Madrid have maintained an upper hand over Real Madrid, going unbeaten in their last four matches and eliminating them from the Copa del Rey round of 16 last season. However, Real Madrid's extraordinary history in the Champions League cannot be overlooked.
“As we always relate situations to history, and history exists, Real Madrid’s history in the Champions League is extraordinary, and tomorrow, we have a big opportunity.” – Simeone
Despite Atletico's recent dominance over Real Madrid in local competitions, the Champions League presents a different stage. Both teams are preparing meticulously for what is expected to be a tight and hard-fought tie.
“All the previous games will have no impact at all – this is the Champions League.” – Simeone
Real Madrid's manager Carlo Ancelotti acknowledged the quality and strategic prowess of Atletico's coach Diego Simeone. He expressed admiration for Simeone's approach to the game.
“What I like is the way he reads games, how he sets up his team, his strategy, the defensive grit his players have – I like all of that,” – Ancelotti
Ancelotti also emphasized the importance of attitude and determination in this crucial matchup. Reflecting on their recent performance against Betis, he hopes for a better display from his team.
“We lacked attitude in the game against Betis. I hope it was an isolated incident,” – Ancelotti
Atletico Madrid's coach Diego Simeone remains optimistic about his team's growth and potential.
“They both have a tremendous history and we are pure growth, which is very nice.” – Simeone
For Atletico Madrid, overcoming their city rivals in this competition would mark a significant milestone in their quest for European glory. Simeone acknowledges the respect between the two teams, emphasizing the competitive nature of this encounter.
“I see a game with a lot of respect against a great opponent and I think they respect us in the same way,” – Simeone
Elsewhere in the round of 16, German clubs Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen will reignite their local rivalry. With both teams eager to progress further in Europe's elite competition, fans can expect a fiercely contested battle.
Meanwhile, Barcelona, another storied club with five Champions League titles to their name, watches closely as their LaLiga competitors vie for dominance on the European stage.
