The Champions League playoff draw has set up a thrilling encounter: Real Madrid against Benfica, managed by Jose Mourinho. This match is a rematch following Benfica's dramatic late victory this week, which denied Real a top-eight finish. The stakes are high, with teams like Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan also facing tough tests to reach the round of 16.

Real Madrid will be without key players for the first leg against Benfica. The first legs will be played on February 17-18, with the return legs on February 24-25. Mourinho, Real's former coach, will be eager to eliminate them. This matchup adds extra spice, given Mourinho's history with Real and the recent match's dramatic finish.

Other notable matchups include Atalanta vs. Borussia Dortmund, with Dortmund favored. Paris Saint-Germain faces AS Monaco in an all-French tie, which PSG should win. Galatasaray and Juventus are set for a tight contest. The playoff round promises intense competition as teams battle for a spot in the knockout stages.

This year's Champions League knockout phase promises to be exciting. The winners of these playoff ties will advance to the round of 16, joining teams that already secured their spots. The competition is heating up, with potential upsets and thrilling matches on the horizon. The final will be played in Budapest's Puskas Arena on May 30th.