Real Madrid has been placed in one of the toughest groups in the new league-stage format of the 2025–26 Champions League. Their rivals include Manchester City (at home), Liverpool (away), Juventus (at home), along with Benfica, Olympique de Marseille, Olympiacos, Monaco, and a long trip to Kazakhstan to face Kairat Almaty.
This draw highlights the challenges of the new format, which requires the 36 participating teams to play eight matches, four at home and four away. Only the top eight qualify directly for the Round of 16, while those placed 9th to 24th go to the playoff round, and the rest are eliminated. For Madrid, this setup means maintaining top performance from day one, as every single game demands maximum physical and tactical effort.
The combination of world-class opponents, paired with demanding travel, including the historic trip to Kazakhstan, will test Xabi Alonso’s management skills and the depth of his squad.
What will Real Madrid need to advance without major setbacks?
They must rotate wisely, stay fully focused in the decisive matches, and make the most of their home advantage to secure crucial points. Only then will they be able to overcome what could be one of their toughest challenges in recent years.
