Champions League Play‑Off Drama: Real Madrid Win, Galatasaray Shock Juventus, Leverkusen Strong, Brugge‑Atleti Thriller

Posted : 19 February 2026

Yesterday’s Champions League action saw several compelling ties kick off as teams sought advantage ahead of next week’s second legs. In Lisbon, Real Madrid came away with a narrow 1‑0 win at Benfica courtesy of a decisive goal from Vinícius Júnior, but the match was overshadowed by claims of racial abuse directed at Vinícius, prompting a UEFA investigation following the full‑time whistle. The Spaniards will travel to the Portuguese capital for the return leg holding a slim advantage but will be wary of the charged atmosphere and controversy that clouded the game.

In Istanbul, **Galatasaray delivered one of the most eye‑catching results of the night by routing Juventus 5‑2 in their first‑leg play‑off. The Turkish side’s clinical attacking display — featuring a brace from Noa Lang and contributions from Davinson Sánchez and Sacha Boey — put them firmly in the driving seat heading into the return tie. Juventus’ inability to contain Galatasaray’s wide threats and their red card setback in the second half left them with plenty to do in Turin next week.

Meanwhile in Greece, Bayer Leverkusen’s 2‑0 victory over Olympiacos was built on an excellent quickfire double from Patrik Schick shortly after the hour mark. The German side’s control in the second half, coupled with their defensive resilience, gives them a comfortable cushion for their return match in Germany — even though Olympiacos had notable moments in the first period.

In Belgium, Club Brugge and Atlético Madrid served up an entertaining 3‑3 draw, with Atlético overcoming a 2‑0 deficit only for Brugge to respond before the visitors pegged it back late on. Julián Álvarez’s early penalty and other decisive contributions were balanced by Brugge’s second‑half fightback, ensuring this tie remains wide open ahead of the second leg.

Other first‑leg fixtures saw Paris Saint‑Germain edge AS Monaco 3‑2 in a tight encounter, and Borussia Dortmund record a solid 2‑0 win over Atalanta, adding to a busy midweek of European competition.

Looking Ahead: These opening legs have set the stage for dramatic second legs next week, with several ties finely balanced or swinging in favour of unexpected frontrunners. Real Madrid’s controversial night adds off‑field narrative to their tie with Benfica, while Galatasaray’s emphatic win over Juventus positions them as one of the early shocks of the knockout phase. Teams will now regroup before the decisive return fixtures, where tactical adjustments and home support could prove crucial.

Champions League Play‑Off Drama: Real Madrid Win, Galatasaray Shock Juventus, Leverkusen Strong, Brugge‑Atleti Thriller

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