Liverpool and Real Madrid are set to face off at Anfield in the Champions League group stage for the second season running — but a new UEFA rule could prevent such repeats in the future.
Under paragraph 16.03 of the UEFA Champions League regulations, the Club Competitions Committee has ruled that a fixture between the same two teams cannot be repeated at the same home ground for three consecutive seasons.
That means if both clubs qualify for the 2026/27 group stage, Liverpool would no longer be able to host Real Madrid again.
This week’s clash will mark the 13th meeting between the two sides in Europe, including three finals (1981, 2021, 2022).
Last season, Arne Slot’s side defeated Madrid 2-0 at Anfield, and now they welcome the Spanish giants once again.
