Real Madrid’s win over Union Berlin earlier this week represented everything the club stands for. The men in white put up a fight against the opponents’ heroics, showed grit and determination to no end and pulled off a comeback win of the highest quality.
Los Blancos are perennial favourites in the European competition, especially given their rich history and ability to shine under pressure.
Carlo Ancelotti’s men are once again through to the knockout stages, that too as the winners of Group C, having won each of their six games. And, the draw next week will decide their next opponent.
Potential match-ups
The Champions League boasts special rules to ensure equality across regions and clubs of all tiers.
As part of the same, a club is not allowed to face opposition from the same national league and a team from the same group.
Since Real Madrid finished top of their group, their list of potential opponents will be one of the runners-up from the remaining seven groups. That roster, however, includes clubs of varying stature including some of football’s giants.
Real Madrid will undoubtedly hope for a simpler route to the quarterfinals, and FC Copenhagen, PSV Eindhoven, Porto and Lazio would thus appear favourable oppositions.
Else, they will have to take on one of Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Milan or RB Leipzig. Any of the aforementioned three would present a very difficult clash.
Los Blancos have faced an English opponent ten times in their previous 13 UCL knockout ties. But they will be spared from that in the Round of 16 stage as Manchester City and Arsenal both finished atop their groups.
A special record
Real Madrid’s win over Union Berlin was special for many reasons. Yet, what made it more memorable than any other win was the achievement that came alongside it.
With the win on Tuesday night, Los Blancos registered their sixth win out of six games in the group stages of the UCL this season. Only Manchester City can boast of the same accomplishment this season.
It thus goes without saying that Real Madrid are one of the favourites. All eyes are on the draw that will take place on Monday.