#3 Real Madrid vs Napoli
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Real Madrid are looking to become the first side to retain the European Cup in the Champions League era. The team that stands in their way is Napoli, who have qualified for the knockout stages for just the second time in their history.
But in the wake of a successful season for the Italian side, in which they qualified as winners of Group B, Real Madrid have their task cut out for them. The game will see the return of two former Madrid players, Jose Callejon and Raul Albiol, to the Bernabeu.
Players to watch out for
- Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 34 goals in 38 knockout games for Real Madrid and will look to increase that tally against the side from Naples.
- Dries Mertens has been Napoli's best player this season with 16 Serie A goals and has scored four of his side's last eight Champions League goals.
Key stats
- Leo Beenhakkers's Real Madrid overcome Napoli 3-1 on aggregate when these two sides met in the 1987/88 European Champions Club's Cup. That was the only encounter between the two teams.
- Napoli are unbeaten in 18 matches in all competitions, winning 12 on the way.
Prediction
Napoli will put up a fight on their home ground but the daunting task that awaits them at the Bernabeu would be a bit too much for the Italian giants.
First leg – Real Madrid 2-0 Napoli
Second leg – Napoli 1-1 Real Madrid
