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This season Real Madrid faced quite tough opponents in 8 matches and different while for previous seasons in the group stage Madrid faced weaker opponents than them that made Real Madrid undefeated in the group stage and always came out as champions in the group. However, this season is where Real Madrid's performance is tested whether they can defend the UCL title if they face tough clubs at the beginning to continue to advance to the next round.
The new format implemented in the Champions League makes it a little difficult for Real Madrid to achieve maximum results because most of the teams they face are very difficult to beat. Previously they had lost two matches, this number may increase because in the remaining four matches they will face Liverpool and Atalanta. I am very skeptical that they can retain the title because their performance this season is very different from last season. After losing to Milan, they now have to fight hard to improve their position in the standings, but I am also very pessimistic that Real Madrid can win at Liverpool's headquarters.
I didn’t understand the new format when it was first introduced this season. I thought it would favor only big teams who have the squad depth and ability to rotate their players to fit in the increased number of fixture but the new format seems to be affecting the big teams as well. Real Madrid has suffered two losses in this season's Champions League campaign but that doesn't mean that they can't win the remaining four fixtures left. Liverpool; Atlanta; Salzburg; and Brest are tough opponents but I believe Real Madrid has shown they are not to be underestimated in the UCL.