After an exhilarating group stage, the Champions League is set to recommence next month as the final 16 teams face off and battle to progress. There are some incredible ties lying in wait and some fascinating contests for football fans to enjoy.

After meeting in the final of last season’s competition, Liverpool and Real Madrid will play once again, this time in the preliminary knockout rounds. Their previous bout was a thrilling clash, but things change fast in football, and we can expect to see a different encounter when the two footballing giants meet again. Are Real Madrid the favourites to beat Liverpool? Let’s find out.

What Happened Last Time They Met?

Liverpool and Real Madrid last met in the Champions League final back in May 2022. After an incredible tournament campaign with legendary victories over Chelsea and Manchester City, many fans were of the opinion that Real Madrid were destined to go and lift the trophy. This prophecy was fulfilled thanks to a single goal by the mercurial winger Vinicius Junior, as well as some heroic saves by Thibaut Courtois.

This marked the end of what was an incredible tournament journey for Real Madrid, one that will go down in the history books as one of their most memorable. If you want the chance to see one of these legendary European bouts for real, make sure to book some Champions League tickets.

How Has Real Madrid’s Form Been?

When it comes to predicting the winner of a tie, it can be helpful to examine how each side has performed so far this season. Real Madrid have performed reasonably well so far in their domestic league. However, two draws and two losses see them sit in second place behind rivals Barcelona. Fans will be hoping that performances can improve to see them reclaim the top spot as the season progresses.

Real Madrid finished top of their Champions League group, recording just one loss and one draw while winning the remainder of their games comfortably.

How Has Liverpool’s Form Been?

Liverpool have had a decidedly less impressive start to the season. They have toiled in the Premier League, with four draws and an astonishing six losses, recently a sobering 3-0 defeat to Brighton, leaving them languishing at 9th in the league table.

Liverpool’s Champions League form has been more positive. After a ropey start that saw them lose 1-4 to trophy contenders Napoli, Liverpool went on to beat Ajax and Rangers home and away, humiliating the latter 1 – 7 at Ibrox. They then beat Napoli at Anfield to secure second in the group.

Are Real Madrid Favourites To Beat Liverpool?

Going by each respective team’s domestic performance, it might seem like a certainty that Real Madrid will get past Liverpool in the Champions League Round of 16. However, despite their struggles, Liverpool still have some dangerous players at their disposal, already evidenced by their results earlier in the campaign. While Real Madrid might edge Liverpool on the odds, anything can happen in football.