Real Madrid face another stiff test in their quest to defend their UEFA Champions League title, facing crosstown rivals Atletico Madrid in the round of 16. The reigning champions are in the last 16 after knocking out 2023 winners Manchester City in a 6-3 aggregate win in the knockout phase playoffs,

Atletico Madrid's Javi Galan, left, is challenged by Real Madrid's Rodrygo during the Champions League round of 16 first leg soccer match between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid at the Bernebeu stadium in Madrid, Spain, Tuesday, March 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez) AP

Brahim Diaz and Rodrygo scored splendid goals as Real Madrid outlasted Atletico Madrid 2-1 in the first leg of the Madrid derby rivals' UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie on Tuesday.