Real Madrid faces a scenario not in its plans for the Champions League, as having to go through the playoffs in this new format is undoubtedly an added concern for any club competing at the highest level with such a congested schedule.

At the moment, the white team is not among the top eight teams in this league phase of the competition, but they can still make it into this elite group, as long as several results go their way in what will be a crazy final matchday.

Miracle or impossible mission?

In Real Madrid's mindset, there is no such thing as an "impossible mission," especially in the Champions League. That said, Carlo Ancelotti's team faces a tough challenge to qualify among the top eight teams that directly advance to the round of 16.

Real Madrid needs to win against Stade Brestois

The white team must defeat Stade Brestois next Wednesday and reach 15 points. This result would allow them to surpass the French team, which would remain at 13 points. However, Real Madrid still depends on several external factors, as Bayer Leverkusen, Aston Villa, Monaco, Feyenoord, and Lille also have 13 points, complicating the chances of direct qualification.

Key teams to watch out for

What Real Madrid Needs to Qualify Directly for Champions League Round of 16Not only does the white team need to win their own match, but they must also hope for favorable results in other games. This includes losses or draws from teams like Bayer Leverkusen, who play at home against Sparta Prague, and Aston Villa, who face Celtic at home. Additionally, Ancelotti’s team needs Atalanta, who have 14 points, to lose their match against FC Barcelona.

Goal difference will be crucial

Another decisive factor will be goal difference. If Real Madrid can manage another heavy win, like the one against Salzburg, it could improve their position. Currently, Ancelotti’s team has a +5 goal difference, but other teams like Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich have a better goal difference (+8 and +6 respectively).