Once again, Real Madrid will have to play against Atlético de Madrid to secure a title. In this case, to advance in the Champions League, Carlo Ancelotti's team must overcome their Madrid neighbors to qualify for the quarter-finals. The draw has been closely followed in the white club's locker room, and the message conveyed is clear and strong.
"What we wanted," was heard in Real Madrid's locker room after this draw. Although both Atlético and Leverkusen were tough matchups, this duel is considered the best possible. Especially for not having to travel too much, something Mbappé himself explained after defeating Manchester City.
There is caution in Real Madrid, although the reality is that the tie could have been worse. Both teams know each other perfectly and high-flying, very tactical matches are expected. It won't be as easy as beating City, but there is confidence in advancing in the Champions League.
If they do, the next opponent would come from the tie between PSV and Arsenal, where the English are the big favorites. Meanwhile, in the bottom half of the bracket, PSG, Liverpool, Club Brugge, and Aston Villa will face each other.
Contained Happiness in Real Madrid for the Champions League
Despite not having a completely good league phase, Real Madrid believes they are back. They had to overcome City and did so with great impressions, once again establishing themselves as one of the favorites to win the Champions League.
Now they face Atlético de Madrid, which has a packed schedule ahead and is also competing for the League. It's the duel most wanted in the locker room and the one that resulted from the UEFA draw.
The only thing that Real Madrid doesn't like and causes some unease is that the return match will be held at the Metropolitano. However, looking back in history, these encounters have almost always ended in favor of the whites.
Real Madrid hopes to arrive fully prepared to win the Champions League again, and to do so, they must first overcome Atlético de Madrid. It won't be easy, but there is confidence.