Madrid: The Bernabeu is set to host a fiery clash between Real Madrid and Manchester City in the Champions League round of 16 today. The eyes of football fans worldwide will be on the Santiago Bernab©u Stadium this Wednesday evening, as Real Madrid and Manchester City renew their modern classic rivalry in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, this match carries unprecedented historical significance, as it marks the first time in the competition's history that the two teams have met in the knockout stages for five consecutive seasons, cementing this rivalry as one of the strongest in Europe over the last decade. Real Madrid, aiming to extend their record by winning their 16th title in the tournament, are determined to overcome the round of 16 hurdle after being forced into the play-off rounds following their ninth-place finish in La Liga, just one point behind Manchester City.

Meanwhile, Manchester City secured their place in the Round of 16 after accumulating 16 points in the league, including a valuable 2-1 victory at the Santiago Bernab©u thanks to goals from Erling Haaland and Nico O'Reilly. This was only the English team's second win in eight visits to Real Madrid's stadium.