Real Madrid is the most decorated club of the century, but its cultural impact is overshadowed by Barcelona, whose distinct footballing philosophy is celebrated.

MANCHESTER, England (AP) — Real Madrid faces an immediate rematch with Benfica after the teams were drawn together in the Champions League playoffs on Friday. Benfica beat Madrid 4-2 on Wednesday to deny the 15-time European champion direct qualification to the round of 16 and force it into the uncertainty of the playoffs.

Real Madrid will play an away game in La Liga against Villarreal.

Kylian Mbappe did not hold back when describing the final moments of the game between Real Madrid and Benfica in the Champions League.

Tiny Bodø/Glimt is making a big splash in the Champions League and after back-to-back upsets over Manchester City and Atletico Madrid, it has set up a possible showdown with Real Madrid. A 2-1 comeback win at Atletico on Wednesday saw the Norwegian club scrape into the playoffs.

Real Madrid faces Bodo/Glimt or Benfica in the Champions League playoffs. Full 2025/26 knockout schedule, dates, and where to watch on TV and streaming.

Real Madrid head coach Álvaro Arbeloa has insisted he will continue to trust the club’s biggest stars, pledging to give them as many minutes

Real Madrid chiefs have privately admitted that their long-term transfer strategy has failed following a disastrous night in Lisbon. Reports from Spain suggest the club accepts their renewal plan to replace legends like Toni Kroos and Luka Modric has flopped,