Brest’s UEFA Champions League campaign has hit a speed bump, with two defeats in their last three league phase games putting their top-eight finish in jeopardy. Despite this, the French outfit has already secured a spot in the knockout phase playoffs, a remarkable achievement in their first European campaign.

Brest will face reigning champions Real Madrid in their final league phase game, and a loss could make them the first UCL debutants to lose to both Barcelona and Real Madrid in one European campaign since Leeds in 2000/01. However, Brest has been impressive at home, going unbeaten in their three UCL home games so far (W2, D1).

Real Madrid, on the other hand, has gained momentum as the season progressed and is now just one point behind Brest (W4, L3). Carlo Ancelotti’s men are also guaranteed a playoff spot but will be looking to win and potentially secure a direct spot in the round of 16. Real Madrid’s attacking prowess will be a significant threat to Brest, having scored 17 times in their last four matches (W4).

Despite their impressive form, Real Madrid has struggled on the road in the UCL, losing two of their three away fixtures this term (W1), including a 1-0 loss to Lille in France. They have also lost half of their UCL away games in France (W5, D2, L7), which could give Brest some hope.

The match promises to be an exciting encounter, with Brest’s Abdallah Sima and Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé being the players to watch. Mbappé returns to his homeland after scoring nine goals in ten previous appearances against Brest. A win for either team could have significant implications for their UCL campaign, making this a must-win game for both sides.

Other La Liga teams involved on Wednesday include Barcelona hosting Atalanta, Girona will welcome Premier League club Arsenal, and Atletico Madrid will be in Austria for Salzburg.