The Champions League play-off draw has been confirmed in Switzerland, setting up the first knockout battles on the road to the round of 16. Teams that finished between ninth and 24th in the league phase will now contest two-legged ties next month, with the winners advancing to face the top eight sides who qualified automatically.
For Nigerian fans, the draw brings immediate intrigue, with Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman both handed major European tests as the knockout stage begins.
Victor Osimhen’s Galatasaray Draw Juventus
Victor Osimhen is set for a heavyweight showdown after Galatasaray were paired with Juventus in the play-off round. The Super Eagles striker has been central to Galatasaray’s Champions League campaign and now faces one of Europe’s most experienced knockout sides.
The first leg in Istanbul promises a fierce atmosphere, with Osimhen expected to lead the line as Galatasaray look to take an advantage into the return leg in Italy. Juventus’ defensive organisation will be tested by Osimhen’s pace, power and movement across both matches.
Ademola Lookman and Atalanta Face Borussia Dortmund
Ademola Lookman also faces a demanding assignment after Atalanta were drawn against Borussia Dortmund. The Italian side narrowly missed out on automatic qualification and now meet a Dortmund team known for their intensity and attacking threat.
Lookman has been one of Atalanta’s key attacking outlets in Europe this season and will again be central if Raffaele Palladino’s side are to navigate a tie that could be decided by moments in transition and pressing.
Raphael Onyedika’s Club Brugge Draw Atletico Madrid
Raphael Onyedika and Club Brugge have been handed a tough test after being drawn against Atletico Madrid. The Super Eagles midfielder has been a consistent presence in Brugge’s Champions League run and now faces one of the most tactically disciplined sides in Europe.
With Atletico’s experience in two-legged ties, Onyedika’s energy and ball-winning ability in midfield could prove vital if Brugge are to cause an upset.
Benfica Handed Real Madrid Rematch After Goalkeeper Drama
One of the standout ties sees Benfica drawn against Real Madrid, just days after the two sides met in a dramatic 4-2 encounter in Lisbon. That match produced one of the moments of the Champions League season, with Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin scoring a stoppage-time header to send his side through on goal difference.
The rematch adds another layer of intrigue, with Real Madrid once again forced into the play-offs and Benfica carrying momentum from a night that stunned Europe.
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Bruno Onyemaechi and Olympiacos Meet Bayer Leverkusen
Bruno Onyemaechi remains in the competition after Olympiacos were drawn against Bayer Leverkusen. The Greek side face a Leverkusen team full of attacking quality, making the first leg in Athens crucial.
Onyemaechi will be hoping Olympiacos can use home advantage to stay in the tie before travelling to Germany for the return leg.
George Ilenikhena’s Monaco Draw PSG
George Ilenikhena is part of a Monaco side set for a high-profile all-French clash against champions Paris Saint-Germain. Monaco edged into the play-offs during the league phase and now face one of the tournament favourites.
Attention returns to league football this weekend. Bet on all the action at Bet9ja!
