The UEFA Champions League 2025-26 playoff draw was held on January 30, 2026, at the House of European Football in Nyon, Switzerland, setting up the next stage of the competition as teams fight for a place in the round of 16. Sixteen sides that finished between ninth and 24th place in the league phase were paired for two-leg knockout ties, with winners advancing to join the top eight clubs who progressed directly to the last 16. The fixtures promise high drama in February as European heavyweights and spirited challengers prepare for decisive clashes.
Knockout playoff draw format
The draw paired seeded and unseeded sides based on their league phase finishes. Clubs that finished 9th to 16th became seeded teams, while those that finished 17th through 24th were unseeded. Each tie will be played over two legs, with the seeded team typically hosting the second leg. The eight winners will join the already qualified top eight, including Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, Barcelona, Chelsea, Sporting CP and Manchester City, in the round of 16.
Real Madrid vs Benfica: A rematch to watch
One of the most eye-catching ties sees Real Madrid drawn against Benfica. The pair met earlier in the league phase, producing one of the most memorable nights of the campaign when Benfica’s goalkeeper scored a 98th-minute winner to secure their spot and condemn Madrid to the playoff route. This tie offers both clubs a chance at redemption or affirmation, with Madrid eager to assert control and Benfica looking to replicate their late-season heroics.
Monaco vs PSG: French flair on the line
A distinctly French flavour will define the clash between AS Monaco and Paris Saint‑Germain. PSG, one of Europe’s most star-studded sides, will test the resilience and tactical discipline of Monaco in a tie where both teams will feel they can progress. PSG’s experience in deep knockout runs contrasts with Monaco’s energetic style, making this a compelling fixture for fans of attacking football.
Galatasaray vs Juventus: Two football giants
Another standout pairing is Galatasaray against Juventus, a matchup between Turkish passion and Italian tradition. Juventus, with its rich European pedigree, will be favoured, but Galatasaray have proven they can challenge bigger names, especially in high-stakes settings with vociferous home support. This tie could produce surprising moments and significant upsets.
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Dortmund vs Atalanta: Pace & pressure
A tactical battle awaits between Borussia Dortmund and Atalanta, two sides known for exciting football. Dortmund’s direct attacking style will clash with Atalanta’s high-energy, pressing approach, creating the potential for an entertaining and unpredictable tie. Both clubs will view this as a chance to reaffirm their place among Europe’s elite.
Other notable ties
The playoffs also feature several other intriguing matchups that promise close contests:
• Qarabağ vs Newcastle United: Newcastle’s Premier League experience will be tested by Qarabağ’s disruptive style.
• Club Brugge vs Atlético Madrid: A clash between Belgian consistency and Spanish grit.
• Bodø/Glimt vs Inter Milan: Norwegian flair meets Serie A strength.
• Olympiacos vs Bayer Leverkusen: Greek resilience against German efficiency.
Each tie will be played across two legs, with first legs scheduled for February 17–18 and second legs on February 24–25, 2026. The winners will secure their place in the long-awaited round of 16, setting up clashes with Europe’s elite from March onwards.
What fans should look forward to
With eight high-stakes fixtures on the horizon, the Champions League playoff round promises compelling narratives and potential upsets. Established giants like Real Madrid and PSG will be under pressure to navigate their ties smoothly, while underdogs such as Qarabağ and Bodø/Glimt will relish their chances to spring surprises. As teams vie to enter the round of 16, fans can expect dramatic two-leg ties, tactical battles and memorable goals that embody the essence of European football.
