The UEFA Champions League has officially released the knockout play-off fixtures for the 2025/26 season, marking the start of the competition’s most intense phase so far. Following the conclusion of the league phase, clubs that finished outside the top eight now face do-or-die battles as they fight for a place in the Round of 16.
Under the new Champions League format, teams that placed ninth to 24th in the league standings must contest two-leg play-off ties. These matches will be played home and away, with the first legs scheduled for February 17–18 and the second legs on February 24–25, 2026. The winners will advance to the last 16, where Europe’s top clubs are waiting.
Confirmed Champions League knockout Play-off fixtures
The play-off round features a strong mix of European heavyweights and surprise performers. Each tie will be decided on aggregate score over two matches.
Knockout play-off fixtures:
- Real Madrid vs Benfica
- Newcastle United vs Qarabağ
- Juventus vs Galatasaray
- Atlético Madrid vs Club Brugge
- Atalanta vs Borussia Dortmund
- Bayer Leverkusen vs Olympiacos
- Paris Saint-Germain vs Monaco
- Inter Milan vs Bodø/Glimt
Several of these fixtures stand out as major European clashes. Real Madrid’s meeting with Benfica brings together two clubs with rich Champions League history, while Juventus vs Galatasaray promises a physical and tactical contest. Paris Saint-Germain’s tie against Monaco adds a familiar rivalry, with both teams knowing each other well from domestic competition.
What is at stake in the play-off round
The knockout play-off stage is a decisive moment in the Champions League. Unlike the league phase, there is no margin for error. Teams must manage two demanding matches, often under intense pressure, where away performances can be just as important as home results.
Clubs progressing from this stage will not only reach the Round of 16 but also gain momentum and confidence ahead of tougher challenges. For teams knocked out, the defeat brings an early end to their European campaign.
Teams already through to the Round of 16
While the play-off matches take place in February, eight clubs have already secured automatic qualification to the Round of 16 after finishing in the top eight of the league phase.
Direct qualifiers:
- Arsenal
- Barcelona
- Bayern Munich
- Chelsea
- Liverpool
- Manchester City
- Sporting CP
- Tottenham Hotspur
These teams will join the play-off winners in March when the next round begins.
Looking ahead
As the play-off fixtures approach, clubs will shift focus to careful preparation, tactical planning, and squad management. The Champions League is known for delivering surprises at this stage, with underdogs often rising to the occasion.
With the final set for May 30, 2026, at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest, the knockout play-offs represent the first major step toward European glory. Fans can expect drama, passion, and unforgettable nights as the battle for a place in the last 16 begins.