Champions League 2025/26 Kicks Off: Favorites, Dark Horses, and Debutants

Posted : 16 September 2025

This season’s Champions League features 36 teams in one large table, each playing eight matches—four at home and four away—against opponents from different tiers. The top eight automatically qualify for the quarterfinals, teams ranked 9th–24th fight for a spot in the last 16, while the bottom 12 are eliminated.

Who Are the Favorites?

Liverpool enter as the bookmakers’ top pick after a half-billion-euro squad overhaul, despite early-season hiccups. With stars like Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak still finding their rhythm, the Reds are unbeaten after four matches, including a big win over Arsenal. Defending champions PSG, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, and Manchester City also stand among the strongest contenders.

Teams in Top Form

Barcelona arrive with momentum after a 6-0 win over Valencia, while Juventus and Napoli look rejuvenated with perfect starts in Serie A. Bayern Munich dominate the Bundesliga, and PSG continue to cruise in Ligue 1, although questions remain about their depth for tougher knockout battles.

Winners and Losers of the Draw

Chelsea received one of the most favorable draws, facing manageable opponents like Paphos, Karabakh, and Atalanta. Barcelona also fared well, avoiding most top-tier rivals. On the other hand, PSG face a daunting group featuring Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Tottenham, ensuring a difficult path to the knockouts.

Potential Cinderella Stories

Tottenham and Monaco could be this year’s surprise packages. With strong squads featuring new arrivals like Mohamed Kudus and Randal Kolo Muani, both teams have the quality to make deep runs in Europe, even if it comes at the expense of domestic league form.

Debutants to Watch

Four teams make their Champions League debuts: Union Saint-Gilloise (Belgium), Kairat (Kazakhstan), Bodø/Glimt (Norway), and Paphos (Cyprus). These sides may not threaten the giants but bring fresh energy and ambition. Notably, Kairat will travel nearly 7,000 kilometers to face Sporting Lisbon, marking the longest journey in Champions League history.

The Road Ahead

The Champions League final will be played on May 30, 2026, at the Puskás Arena in Budapest. With giants like Liverpool, Real Madrid, and PSG competing alongside ambitious newcomers, fans can expect drama, upsets, and unforgettable football on the road to Europe’s biggest prize.

Champions League 2025/26 Kicks Off: Favorites, Dark Horses, and Debutants

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