The draw for the revamped UEFA Champions League group stage took place on Thursday at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco, revealing the challenging path ahead for defending champions Real Madrid.
Los Blancos will face a formidable group consisting of:
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Borussia Dortmund:
A perennial powerhouse in German football and a frequent opponent in European competition.*
Liverpool:
The English giants, renowned for their attacking prowess and recent Champions League triumph.*
AC Milan:
The Italian giants, seeking to reclaim their former glory on the European stage.*
Atalanta:
The Italian upstarts, known for their high-pressing style and ability to upset bigger clubs.*
Salzburg:
The Austrian champions, featuring a blend of youth and experience.*
Lille:
The French champions, known for their quick counter-attacks and unpredictable nature.*
Stuttgart:
The German club, making their return to the Champions League after a long absence.*
Brest:
The French side, a relative newcomer to the European scene.This new format for the Champions League group stage will feature four home and away matches against each opponent, promising a grueling and exciting campaign. Real Madrid will be eager to defend their title, but they will face a stiff challenge from a diverse and talented group of opponents. The competition promises to be fierce and unpredictable, with every match carrying significant importance.