Last updated by Nuala Williamson on 18/03/2026

Now that the Champions League league phase and knockout play-offs are complete, and the round of 16 is almost finished, attention has turned to the quarter-finals — where Europe’s top clubs are competing for a place in the semi-finals.

This season has already produced several standout moments, and with some ties decided and others still in the balance, the knockout stages are beginning to take shape.

Here is everything we know so far about the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League, what to expect next, and how to experience it in style with official hospitality.

Explore Champions League hospitality packages

Champions League knockout stages

The 2025/26 competition continues under UEFA’s expanded format, with 36 teams competing in a single league phase before progressing to the knockout rounds.

From there:

  • The top eight teams advanced directly to the round of 16
  • Teams ranked 9th to 24th competed in knockout play-offs
  • The remaining clubs were eliminated

Now, the round of 16 is underway, with two-legged ties determining who will progress to the quarter-finals.

Champions League round of 16 matches

The round of 16 draw produced a series of high-profile fixtures, combining established European powers with emerging sides.

Key ties:

  • Paris Saint-Germain vs Chelsea
  • Real Madrid vs Manchester City
  • Arsenal vs Bayer Leverkusen
  • Liverpool vs Galatasaray
  • Barcelona vs Newcastle United
  • Atlético Madrid vs Tottenham Hotspur
  • Bayern Munich vs Atalanta
  • Sporting CP vs Bodø/Glimt

Round of 16 results so far

Several ties have already been decided, while others remain ongoing or finely balanced heading into second legs.

Confirmed results:

  • Real Madrid defeated Manchester City (5–1 aggregate)
  • Paris Saint-Germain overcame Chelsea (8–2 aggregate)
  • Arsenal beat Bayer Leverkusen (3–1 aggregate)
  • Sporting CP progressed from their tie (5–3 aggregate)

Still to be decided / recently concluded:

  • Liverpool vs Galatasaray
  • Barcelona vs Newcastle United
  • Atlético Madrid vs Tottenham Hotspur
  • Bayern Munich vs Atalanta

These remaining fixtures will determine the final quarter-final line-up.

Champions League quarter-final draw

Unlike previous formats, the knockout bracket has already been mapped out — meaning clubs can anticipate their potential route to the final.

However, not all quarter-finalists are confirmed yet, and several ties depend on the outcome of ongoing round of 16 matches.

Current projected matchups (subject to confirmation):

  • Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich or Atalanta
  • Paris Saint-Germain vs Liverpool or Galatasaray
  • Arsenal vs Sporting CP
  • Barcelona or Newcastle vs Atlético Madrid or Tottenham Hotspur

The full quarter-final lineup will be confirmed once all round of 16 fixtures are complete.

Champions League knockout stage dates

The tournament now moves into its decisive phase, with key fixtures scheduled across the spring.

Key dates:

Round of 16

  • Second legs: March 2026

Quarter-finals

  • First leg: April 2026
  • Second leg: April 2026

Semi-finals

  • First leg: Late April / early May 2026
  • Second leg: May 2026

Final

  • Saturday 30th May 2026

What has stood out so far?

Strong performances from European giants

Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain have delivered convincing results in the round of 16, reinforcing their status as leading contenders.

Premier League pressure

English clubs remain involved, but several face challenging second legs — with progression still uncertain for some sides.

A more open competition

The new format has created a broader range of matchups, increasing competition and reducing predictability in the knockout stages.

What’s next in the Champions League?

As the remaining round of 16 ties conclude, the quarter-final lineup will be finalised.

From there, the competition intensifies significantly, with each round bringing clubs closer to the final in Budapest on Saturday 30th May 2026.

How to experience the Champions League in style

The knockout stages represent some of the most anticipated fixtures in European football.

With Seat Unique, fans can access official hospitality packages at leading venues — offering premium seating, exclusive lounges and a refined matchday experience.

Explore Champions League hospitality packages with Seat Unique

Secure your place at the biggest matches of the season and enjoy the Champions League with added comfort and access.

Explore Champions League hospitality packages