The last round of matches for the final eight automatic qualifiers before the Champions League playoffs took place simultaneously on Wednesday, involving all 18 teams. In a shock result, Real Madrid, the reigning kings of the Champions League, were defeated 4-2 by Benfica, falling out of the top eight and into the playoffs. The match ended dramatically, with two late red cards for Real Madrid’s Raul Asencio and Rodrygo in the 92nd and 97th minutes, respectively. A resultant free-kick was converted by Benfica goalkeeper Trubin, sealing the 4-2 win and sending Madrid into the playoffs. AdvertisementThe eight clubs automatically qualified for the round of 16 are: Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Liverpool, Tottenham, Barcelona, Chelsea, Sporting Lisbon, and Manchester City.