The UEFA Champions League's first-ever league phase is over, and now, with the draw complete, the knockout stage outlook is now much clearer. Manchester City avoided disaster, Liverpool topped the league-phase table,

Despite their longstanding dominance, both teams have had their struggles in the competition's new format, which expanded to 36 teams this season.

Real Madrid will play Manchester City in the Champions League knockout playoffs round in a standout clash of the past two title winners after the draw was made Friday.