The draw for the 2025-26 Champions League playoffs, held on Friday, produced some thrilling matchups as several top teams gear up for the knockout stages. Notable teams like PSG, Real Madrid, and Inter Milan will be challenged with additional fixtures in February, set to intensify the competition.
In an anticipated rematch, Jose Mourinho’s Benfica will once again face Real Madrid, just weeks after an electrifying 4-2 victory in Lisbon. Madrid’s manager, Alvaro Arbeloa, seeks redemption and will hope for a solid performance, especially with the return leg taking place at the iconic Bernabeu. Despite a rocky start to the season, which saw Arbeloa step in, Real Madrid remains a favorite for the trophy, and this tie could be pivotal in shaping their journey in the tournament.
Inter Milan is set to face Bodo/Glimt, with the second leg scheduled at their home ground, the San Siro. This matchup promises to be a strategic encounter, as both teams look to advance. Meanwhile, PSG is tasked with a challenge of their own, as they go head-to-head with AS Monaco in a highly anticipated French derby. PSG comes into this encounter after regaining their momentum in Ligue 1, while Monaco struggles at 10th place, having not secured a victory in their last five matches.
The draw has also placed Newcastle United in a compelling position, as they travel to Azerbaijan to take on Qarabag. Following this, they will have to brace themselves for a Premier League clash against Manchester City.
In addition to these matches, Galatasaray will meet Juventus, while Atletico Madrid will square off against Club Brugge in other exciting encounters. Borussia Dortmund will take on Atalanta in a matchup that highlights two teams coming off disappointing performances in their group stages. Dortmund’s ambition to secure a deeper run contrasts with Atalanta’s potential as an underdog ready to surprise.
The first leg of these playoff matches is scheduled for the weeks of February 17-18 and 24-25, promising a month filled with highly competitive football across Europe. Each matchup carries significant implications for the teams involved, and fans can expect a thrilling spectacle as clubs vie for a precious place in the round of 16.