The Road to the 2025-26 Champions League Final
The journey towards the 2025-26 Champions League final is now set, with several of Europe’s elite clubs clashing ahead of the Budapest showdown after an exciting round of 16 draw. In a highly anticipated matchup, Real Madrid will face Manchester City once again, while the reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain will reignite their rivalry with Chelsea, who defeated them in last summer’s FIFA Club World Cup final.
These matchups belong to the Silver Path, accompanied by Bayern Munich, Atalanta, Liverpool, and Galatasaray, with only one team expected to reach the final. Conversely, the Blue Path features fewer past champions, including Barcelona, Newcastle, Arsenal, Bayer Leverkusen, Bodo/Glimt, Sporting CP, Atletico Madrid, and Tottenham.
The first leg of the round of 16 matches is just around the corner, scheduled for March 10-11, with the second leg set for March 17-18. The anticipation is high for how these games will unfold.
SILVER PATH
Paris Saint-Germain vs. Chelsea
This clash pits the European champions against the world champions, reigniting a fierce rivalry that developed over the 2000s and 2010s. PSG has not been as impressive this season compared to last year, but the potential return of Ousmane Dembele and Fabian Ruiz from injury may help their cause. Chelsea, while possessing talent, may struggle against a well-prepared PSG squad aiming for revenge after their previous loss in New Jersey last summer.
Galatasaray vs. Liverpool
Galatasaray celebrated a 1-0 win against Liverpool in Istanbul last September, but the Turkish side struggles away from home. Despite Liverpool’s inconsistent performances this season, they are favored to advance, provided they manage to avoid a significant loss in the first leg. The presence of former Premier League players on Galatasaray’s squad may aid their efforts, but Liverpool should still come out on top.
Real Madrid vs. Manchester City
This rivalry has become familiar, with both clubs clashing over the past four seasons. A round of 16 exit would be catastrophic for either side, making this matchup particularly intense. Historically, both teams have had equal success against one another, and the outcome hinges on which team can best contain the other’s star players.
Atalanta vs. Bayern Munich
Atalanta reached the round of 16 by overcoming a 2-0 first-leg deficit against Borussia Dortmund. However, they will face a much stronger Bayern Munich side, who are well-balanced and have a potent attacking threat with Harry Kane and Jamal Musiala back from injury. It will be a tough challenge for Atalanta to continue representing Italian football in the quarterfinals.
BLUE PATH
Newcastle United vs. Barcelona
Barcelona edged past Newcastle with a previous win at St James’ Park, and the odds appear stacked against Newcastle due to several key injuries. Although Barcelona’s defense may be vulnerable to quick attackers like Anthony Gordon, they are expected to dominate over both legs.
Atletico Madrid vs. Tottenham Hotspur
Historically, this matchup has seen Tottenham emerge as victors, but their current domestic form raises concerns about their ability to compete. Atletico, while not as formidable as they once were, are better positioned to take advantage of Tottenham’s struggles and are expected to secure the win.
Bodø/Glimt vs. Sporting CP
Bodø/Glimt’s fairy tale continues as they find themselves in a favorable matchup against Sporting CP. They come into this tie with momentum after strong performances in their group stage. Sporting, however, should not be underestimated, but Bodø’s home advantage could see them advance.
Bayer Leverkusen vs. Arsenal
Leverkusen has improved under new management but still faces an uphill battle against Arsenal, who are leading in the Premier League. This tie provides a favorable opportunity for Arsenal to advance to the semifinals before likely facing Bodø/Glimt or Sporting CP, remaining optimistic about their chances.
