Champions League live updates: Real Madrid, PSG hoping to qualify for round of 16

Madrid – The UEFA Champions League knockout round playoffs delivered high-stakes drama on Wednesday night, sealing the final lineup for this season’s round of 16. Across four simultaneous fixtures, 17 goals and three red cards highlighted a breathless evening that saw Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain book their places in the next phase, while Juventus bowed out after extra-time heartbreak.

At the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid protected a first-leg advantage and eliminated Portuguese giants Benfica 3-1 on aggregate. The result ensures the Spanish club’s continued presence among Europe’s elite as the competition moves toward the business end of the schedule.

In an all-French showdown, holders PSG faced a stiff challenge from AS Monaco but advanced 5-4 on aggregate. The back-and-forth affair showcased the attacking flair of both Ligue 1 sides, yet it was the Parisians who ultimately prevailed to keep their title defense alive.

The night’s most dramatic encounter unfolded in Turin, where Juventus entered the match needing to overturn a 5-2 deficit against Galatasaray. The hosts leveled the tie at 5-5 through regular time, sending the clash into extra time. The Turkish visitors struck twice in the additional 30 minutes, however, to secure their berth in the round of 16 and end Juventus’ European hopes.

With the playoff round now complete, the Champions League field is set, and attention turns to Monday’s draw, where Madrid, PSG, and Galatasaray will learn their opponents for the first knockout stage.