Why Liverpool cannot host Real Madrid in 2026/27 Champions League

Liverpool cannot be drawn at home against Real Madrid in the 2026/27 Champions League league phase because of a UEFA rule designed to prevent the same fixture being repeated with the same home team for three consecutive seasons.

The clubs have met at Anfield during the opening phase in each of the past two campaigns, with Liverpool winning both encounters. Real Madrid could still be drawn to host Liverpool at the Santiago Bernabéu, meaning the fixture itself remains possible. The rule was highlighted by Liverpool FC ahead of Thursday’s Champions League draw.