Real Madrid Prefer Derby In The Last 16 Of The Champions League

JAKARTA - Real Madrid got tickets for the last 16 of the Champions League after overthrowing Manchester City in the knockout phase of two legs with a 6-3 aggregate.

Los Blancos have been waiting for potential opponents, namely between Atletico Madrid or Bayer Leverkusen. They will find out after the draw for the round of 16 which will take place on Friday, February 21, 2025, at UEFA headquarters.

Despite knowing the potential opponents, Real Madrid prefers to meet Los Rojiblancos in the Derby Madrid title.

This was stated by Kylian Mbappe, the main actor who brought Los Blancos to beat Manchester City.

"They are two great teams. Playing against Atletico or Leverkusen is very difficult."

"For me, Atletico will be better because that way we don't need to travel! We travel a lot."

"The two matches will be difficult. So, it's better to have a difficult match without traveling," said Mbappe after the second leg win against Manchester City on Thursday, February 20, 2025.

Mbappe's reason is not without reason. Real Madrid's busy schedule this season is a strong factor in wanting Atletico Madrid as an opponent in the last 16 of the Champions League.

You see, apart from competing for the La Liga title with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, Los Blancos also still have to play the Copa del Rey semifinals.