The UEFA Champions League knockout phase play-off draw has been completed, setting up eight high-stakes two-legged ties as 16 clubs battle for a place in the Round of 16 of the 2025/26 season.
European heavyweights and ambitious outsiders are set for thrilling encounters in February, with the road to the Budapest final now clearly mapped out.
Table of Contents
Full Champions League Knockout Phase Play-Off Fixtures
The confirmed play-off ties are:
- Benfica vs Real Madrid
- Bodø/Glimt vs Inter Milan
- Monaco vs Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
- Qarabağ vs Newcastle United
- Galatasaray vs Juventus
- Club Brugge vs Atlético Madrid
- Borussia Dortmund vs Atalanta
- Olympiacos vs Bayer Leverkusen
All fixtures will be decided over two legs, with aggregate winners advancing to the last 16.
When Will the Matches Be Played?
- Knockout phase play-offs: 17/18 & 24/25 February 2026
- Round of 16: 10/11 & 17/18 March 2026
- Quarter-finals: 7/8 & 14/15 April 2026
- Semi-finals: 28/29 April & 5/6 May 2026
- Final: 30 May 2026 (Budapest)
Teams Already Qualified for the Round of 16
The following eight clubs have already secured automatic qualification after finishing strongly in the league phase:
- Arsenal
- Barcelona
- Bayern Munich
- Chelsea
- Liverpool
- Manchester City
- Sporting CP
- Tottenham Hotspur
These teams will now await the winners of the knockout phase play-offs.
Key Matchups to Watch
Benfica vs Real Madrid
A classic European encounter headlines the draw, with Portuguese giants Benfica facing the competition’s most successful club, Real Madrid. The Spanish side’s experience will be tested against Benfica’s high-intensity home performances.
Monaco vs PSG
An all-French showdown brings domestic rivalry onto the continental stage. PSG’s star power goes up against a disciplined Monaco side capable of causing an upset.
Borussia Dortmund vs Atalanta
Two attack-minded teams collide in what promises to be one of the most entertaining ties. Goals are expected across both legs.
Galatasaray vs Juventus
Galatasaray’s intimidating Istanbul atmosphere will be a major factor as Juventus rely on tactical discipline and European experience.
How the Draw Was Conducted
The knockout phase play-off draw followed UEFA’s league-phase ranking system:
- Teams were grouped into seeded (9–16) and unseeded (17–24) positions.
- Seeded teams were drawn against unseeded teams based on predefined brackets.
- This structure ensured balanced matchups while rewarding higher league-phase finishes.
Conclusion
The 2025/26 Champions League knockout phase play-offs have delivered a perfect blend of heavyweight clashes and potential shock results. As February approaches, fans can expect drama, intensity, and unforgettable European nights.
The race to Budapest is officially on.