Champions League Playoff Drama: Real Madrid Advances Amid Racism Allegations, Atalanta Stuns Dortmund

The Champions League knockout stage is taking shape after a series of compelling playoff matches. Real Madrid secured their place, though overshadowed by allegations of racism, while Atalanta Bergamo produced a stunning comeback against Borussia Dortmund. Elsewhere, Juventus faces an uphill battle, and defending champions PSG aim to close out their tie against Monaco.

Real Madrid Advances, Racism Investigation Ongoing

Real Madrid progressed past Benfica following a 1-1 draw in the second leg, securing a 2-1 aggregate victory. But, the match was marred by accusations of racist abuse directed at Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior during the first leg in Lisbon. Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni has been provisionally suspended by UEFA for one match following the allegations. UEFA dismissed Benfica’s appeal on Wednesday, confirming Prestianni will miss the return leg in Madrid.

Vinícius Júnior accused Prestianni of using a racial slur after scoring the winning goal in the first leg. Prestianni has denied the accusations. UEFA has opened a full investigation, which could result in a longer suspension if the allegations are proven. Real Madrid has provided UEFA with “all available evidence” related to the incident. and

Benfica coach José Mourinho also received a red card during the first leg, adding to the drama surrounding the tie.

Atalanta Completes Remarkable Comeback

Atalanta Bergamo staged a remarkable turnaround, defeating Borussia Dortmund 4-1 in the second leg to advance to the last 16. Having lost the first leg 2-0, Atalanta overcame the deficit with goals from Scamacca, Zappacosta, Pašalić, and a late penalty converted by Samardžič.

The victory marked Atalanta’s first appearance in the Champions League last 16 since 2019, and they are the first team since 2019 to advance after losing the first leg by two goals. The match was not without controversy, as Dortmund had two players sent off – Bensebajní and Schlotterbeck – late in the game.

Other Results and Upcoming Fixtures

Juventus will need a strong performance in the second leg after drawing 0-0 with Galatasaray in Turin. The Italian side faces a challenging task after losing the first leg 5-2 in Istanbul.

Defending champions PSG will seem to defend their 3-2 lead when they host Monaco in the second leg of their French clash.

Atalanta will now face either Arsenal or Bayern Munich in the next round.

Champions League Playoff Results (February 25, 2026)

• Juventus Turin – Galatasaray Istanbul: 0-0 (First match: 2-5)
• Real Madrid – Benfica Lisbon: 1-1 (First match: 1-0)
• Atalanta Bergamo – Borussia Dortmund: 4-1 (First match: 0-2)