Real Madrid’s clash with Valencia ended in dramatic fashion with a contentious 2-2 draw, leaving Jude Bellingham’s potential winning goal disallowed. Despite the disappointment, Carlo Ancelotti’s men must swiftly refocus on their upcoming UEFA Champions League fixture against RB Leipzig, buoyed by their 1-0 first-leg victory.

Real Madrid’s formidable Champions League home record, unbeaten since April 2022, instills confidence as they aim for an eighth consecutive European win, particularly against German opposition. Leipzig, however, must overcome their shaky start against Bochum in the Bundesliga, albeit recovering for a 4-1 win, to challenge Madrid.

The memory of last season’s heavy defeat to Manchester City in the round of 16 looms over Leipzig, despite their ability to score away from home in the Champions League this season.

Nonetheless, facing Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu poses a significant challenge, although Leipzig boasts a positive record against Spanish clubs on foreign soil.

Key players to watch include Bellingham for Madrid, showcasing his scoring prowess in recent matches, and Loïs Openda for Leipzig, known for his goal-scoring impact in the latter stages of matches.

In summary, Madrid seeks to maintain their European dominance, while Leipzig aims to overcome past disappointments and upset the odds in the Champions League.