The Totally Football Show with James Richardson Totally Extra: Champions League draw reaction!
Jan 30, 2026
Pol Ballus, La Liga and European football observer. Seb Stafford-Bloor, on-the-ground European matches analyst. Tom Williams, tactical voice with Ligue 1 focus. James Horncastle, Serie A and Italy specialist. They react to the Champions League playoff draw. Short takes on Benfica v Real, Bodø/Glimt v Inter, Monaco v PSG and Newcastle’s long trip to Baku. Debate contenders, Marseille’s troubles and who might win it all.
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Playoff Draw Reshapes Path To Last 16
- The playoff draw paired dramatic rematches and intriguing underdogs, reshaping the knockout landscape.
- Winners will face heavyweights like Man City, Chelsea, Barca, Arsenal or Bayern in the last 16.
Benfica's Last-Gasp Goal Defines Tie
- James Horncastle recalls Benfica's 98th-minute goalkeeper header sending Real Madrid out.
- That dramatic finish fuels the narrative and makes the rematch irresistible.
Mourinho Rematch Intensifies Madrid Pressure
- Pol Ballus argues Madrid view Benfica as the toughest possible draw and Mourinho's return magnifies the storyline.
- Arbeloa's position may face fan pressure but club hierarchy likely shields him from wholesale blame.