The road to the 2026 final in Budapest is set, featuring blockbuster rematches and a dominant English presence.
Chelsea has been drawn against holders Paris Saint-Germain, a repeat of the 2025 Club World Cup final, while Manchester City will face Real Madrid in the knockouts for a fifth consecutive season.
The first legs will take place on 10-11 March, with the returns on 17-18 March.
• Chelsea vs. PSG: A high-stakes clash between the Club World Cup winners and the Champions League holders.
• Man City vs. Real Madrid: The 10th meeting between these giants since 2022.
• Arsenal vs. Bayer Leverkusen: The Gunners enter as Opta’s favorites (27.4%) after winning every league phase game.
• Newcastle vs. Barcelona: The Magpies host the first leg at St James’ Park.
• Liverpool vs. Galatasaray: The Reds benefit from a second leg at Anfield.
• Tottenham vs. Atletico Madrid: The Europa League champions face a gritty test against Simeone’s side.
Despite Real Madrid’s pedigree, statisticians favor the Premier League. Arsenal (27.4%) and Bayern Munich (14.28%) lead the pack, followed by Liverpool and Manchester City.
If both progress, Newcastle and Tottenham are slated for an all-English quarter-final, while Chelsea and Liverpool could meet in the other half of the bracket.
The final will be held at the Puskas Arena on Saturday, 30 May.
