Champions League Playoff First Legs: Real Madrid, Juventus, and More in Action

The UEFA Champions League knockout round playoff first legs take place on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, featuring high-stakes clashes between Galatasaray and Juventus, Benfica and Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund and Atalanta BC, and Monaco and Paris Saint-Germain.

Galatasaray vs. Juventus: A Resurgent Galatasaray Faces Italian Giants

Turkish side Galatasaray will host Juventus in Istanbul, marking Galatasaray’s return to the knockout rounds for the first time in 12 years. Juventus, however, has struggled in recent elimination ties, having lost their last five. Galatasaray has been in strong form domestically, winning nine and losing none of their Super Lig home fixtures. A predicted scoreline is Galatasaray 2-1 Juventus.

Benfica vs. Real Madrid: A Rematch with Added Intrigue

Benfica welcomes Real Madrid to the Estadio da Luz for a captivating first-leg encounter. Benfica holds a psychological advantage, having secured a stunning 4-2 victory over Real Madrid in their previous meeting. However, Real Madrid are expected to approach this match with greater control and intent, aiming to avenge their earlier defeat. A predicted scoreline is Benfica 0-2 Real Madrid.

Monaco vs. Paris Saint-Germain: All-French Clash

Ligue 1 rivals Monaco and Paris Saint-Germain will face off at Stade Louis II. Monaco recently defeated PSG 1-0 in Ligue 1 at the same venue in November 2025, providing them with confidence. Despite this, PSG’s greater depth and experience in knockout competitions could prove decisive. A predicted scoreline is Monaco 1-2 Paris Saint-Germain.

Borussia Dortmund vs. Atalanta BC: A Battle of Contrasting Styles

Borussia Dortmund will host Atalanta BC, with Dortmund boasting a strong pedigree in European competitions, having recently reached the final and the last eight. Atalanta, while less historically successful, has been in fine form. The match is expected to be closely contested, with a predicted scoreline of Dortmund 1-1 Atalanta.

Key Takeaways

• Galatasaray and Juventus clash in a bid for a Champions League last 16 spot.
• Benfica aims to repeat their shock victory over Real Madrid.
• Monaco and PSG battle in an all-French affair.
• Borussia Dortmund and Atalanta BC face off in a closely anticipated match.