Real Madrid vs. PSG: reactions to the ‘epic’ Champions League last 16 draw

There were “audible gasps” at Uefa HQ when Real Madrid were drawn against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last 16.

Real legend Emilio Butragueno said the clash “could have been the final” and Xabi Alonso, who was making the draw, believes it’s “tough to say who might be favourites” – although he’s backing his former side.

Speaking to Uefa.com, PSG ambassador Maxwell added that the Paris fans would enjoy the “beautiful challenge” of facing the reigning European champions.

Subscribe to The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

Sign up

For fans, especially the neutrals, the Real Madrid vs. PSG tie is a mouthwatering prospect. Here are the best reactions to the draw:

It’s going to be epic.

The “Moneyclasico”?

All focus on the big tie.

Sit back and watch the action unfold.

Fans enjoy the last 16 draw.

It’s going to be MASSIVE.

Barcelona fans have their say.

Of England’s five sides in the Champions League last 16, it’s Chelsea who have been handed the toughest tie after they were drawn to face Spanish giants Barcelona.

The Blues have memories – good and bad – of facing the Catalans in previous years in the Champions League.

In 2012 a superb Fernando Torres breakaway goal secured a 3-2 aggregate win for Chelsea as they beat Barca in the semi-finals. But in 2009 Chelsea hearts were broken when Andres Iniesta scored a late goal at Stamford Bridge as Barcelona reached the final.

Both clubs looked back at previous encounters following the last 16 draw.

A great moment for Chelsea fans.

It’s a modern-day football classic.

Guess who’s back?