Madrid, Benfica and Champions League
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The conclusion of Wednesday's Champions League play-off round means we finally have our Round of 16 contenders.
Vinicius Junior sealed Real Madrid’s progress to the Champions League last 16 on Wednesday with the clincher against Benfica as holders Paris Saint-Germain edged out 10-man Ligue 1 rivals Monaco.
Real Madrid head coach Alvaro Arbeloa has called on Uefa to demonstrate its commitment to combating racism, following alleged abuse directed at forward Vinicius Jr. The incident occurred during last week’s Champions League knockout phase play-off first leg in Lisbon,
Galatasaray struck twice in extra time to end 10-man Juventus' brave fightback and reach the Champions League's last 16, progressing with a 7-5 aggregate victory in their knockout round playoff despite a 3-2 second-leg defeat on Wednesday.
Juventus were left wondering what might have been after coming close to mounting an incredible comeback against Galatasaray with 10 men before eventually being knocked out of the Champions League, 7-5 on aggregate.