Real Madrid's reaction

The round of 16 tie against Manchester City has shown that Real Madrid rise to the occasion when playing in ‘their’ competition.

There’s a reason they’re the kings of Europe. Real Madrid are at their best when playing in the Champions League knockout stages. This has been evident in these round of 16 ties, where Álvaro Arbeloa’s men have swept aside Manchester City. The Spanish side have knocked Pep Guardiola’s team out for the fourth time in the last five years.

But two weeks ago, it was impossible to imagine the tie would end this way. Real Madrid lost to Getafe at the Santiago Bernabéu and found themselves four points behind Barcelona. And just before hosting City, they beat Celta in Vigo with a lucky goal in stoppage time that did little to hide the poor quality of their football, which was utterly lacklustre. Furthermore, Bellingham and Mbappé were injured. But the Champions League arrived and the best Real Madrid is back.

Real Madrid’s latest results

Real Madrid 0-1 Getafe
Celta 1-2 Real Madrid
Real Madrid 3-0 Manchester City
Real Madrid 4-1 Elche
Manchester City 1-2 Real Madrid

Chasing the EA Sports La Liga and Champions League

In this final stretch of the season, Real Madrid’s objectives are clear: to try and win the EA Sports La Liga and the Champions League. To do so, the first step is to beat Atlético Madrid this Sunday in the derby to be played at the Santiago Bernabéu. The only result that will do for the Whites is a win, as otherwise Barcelona could pull away in the table.

As for Europe’s premier competition, Real Madrid will face Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals. The Bavarian side are among the favourites to win the Champions League, so should Álvaro Arbeloa’s men progress, they will prove themselves clear contenders to lift their sixteenth Champions League trophy.

Key to achieving these objectives will be the injured players who are returning to the squad. Above all, Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé. The English midfielder makes a real difference when fit, as his range complements his quality. The French star is one of the best players in the world, and is capable of turning any match, tie or competition on his own.