The Champions League playoff draw in Nyon has delivered a high-stakes showdown: Manchester City vs. Real Madrid. The winners of the last three Champions League titles will meet for the fourth consecutive season in what has become a modern European classic. One of the tournament’s top contenders will be eliminated early.

The rivalry between Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City and Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid has defined recent Champions League campaigns. They have clashed in the semifinals of the last three editions, with the victor always going on to lift the trophy. In 2022 and 2024, Real Madrid prevailed, while City claimed the crown in 2023.

A Rivalry Written in Champions League History

Across 12 Champions League meetings, City holds a slight edge with four wins, five draws, and three victories for Real Madrid. Their battles have produced unforgettable moments, each chapter adding to the intensity of their growing rivalry.

2012/2013 – Group Stage

Their first-ever encounter came in the group stage of the 2012/13 season. José Mourinho’s Real Madrid pulled off a dramatic 3-2 comeback win at the Santiago Bernabéu, while the return leg at the Etihad ended in a goalless draw. This remains the only time these sides have met outside of a knockout round.

2015/16 – Semifinals

The first knockout battle took place in the 2015/16 semifinals. After a cagey 0-0 draw in Manchester, Real Madrid secured a 1-0 win at home, thanks to a deflected Gareth Bale shot, advancing to the Milan final where they clinched their 11th European crown.

2019/20 – Round of 16

After a four-year gap, the two teams met in the round of 16 of the 2019/20 season. City turned the tables, winning 2-1 in Madrid with late goals from Gabriel Jesus and Kevin De Bruyne. The second leg, delayed due to the pandemic, saw City win 2-1 again, eliminating Real Madrid and marking Guardiola’s first knockout victory over Los Blancos.

2021/22 – Semifinals

The 2021/22 clash was one for the ages. City won the first leg 4-3 in a thrilling contest, but Madrid staged a historic comeback in the return leg. A late Rodrygo brace forced extra time, where Karim Benzema’s penalty sent Madrid to the final, en route to their 14th Champions League title.

2022/23 – Semifinals

Seeking revenge, City dominated the 2022/23 semifinal. After a 1-1 draw in Madrid, Guardiola’s team produced a masterclass at the Etihad, winning 4-0 to march into the Istanbul final, where they secured their first-ever Champions League trophy.

2023/24 – Semifinals

Last season, the teams met yet again in the semifinals. A chaotic 3-3 draw in Madrid set the stage for another Etihad showdown. Rodrygo gave Madrid an early lead, but relentless City pressure led to a Kevin De Bruyne equalizer. The tie went to penalties, where Lunin’s heroics helped Madrid prevail.

When Will This Year's Clash Take Place?

Real Madrid will travel to the Etihad for the first leg on February 11 or 12, with the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu on February 18 or 19.

This fixture has become a defining matchup of the modern Champions League. With both clubs desperate to advance, this latest edition promises to deliver another unforgettable chapter in their storied rivalry.