Champions League Round of 16 2025-26: Draw, Fixtures & Preview

The 2025-26 UEFA Champions League Round of 16 draw has delivered some blockbuster ties. With the new league phase format settling in, the knockout stage is set to begin on March 10-11 with return legs on March 17-18. Here's a breakdown of every matchup and what makes this round so special.

The Full Round of 16 Draw

The top 8 teams from the league phase are seeded and have home advantage in the second leg. Arsenal finished as the only team with a perfect record in the league phase, with Bayern Munich in second place. Here are all eight ties:

1. Real Madrid vs. Manchester City

The heavyweight clash everyone wanted. Real Madrid and Manchester City have become modern rivals in Europe, with memorable encounters in recent seasons. City will need to overturn their recent European struggles, while Real Madrid look to defend their status as perennial contenders. This tie alone could be a final.

2. Paris Saint-Germain vs. Chelsea

PSG, the defending champions, face a resurgent Chelsea side. The Blues have been building steadily and will see this as a chance to make a statement against the holders. Expect tactical battles between two star-studded squads.

3. Newcastle United vs. Barcelona

Newcastle's European journey continues with a glamour tie against Barcelona. St. James' Park under the lights will be electric, but Barca's quality makes them dangerous over two legs. A true test of Newcastle's credentials.

4. Bayer Leverkusen vs. Arsenal

Arsenal, the league phase table-toppers with a flawless record, face Xabi Alonso's Bayer Leverkusen. The Gunners are the form team of the competition, but Leverkusen's relentless pressing and tactical discipline make them tricky opponents. A rematch of sorts after their battles in recent seasons.

5. Galatasaray vs. Liverpool

Liverpool travel to the cauldron of Istanbul — a city that holds special memories for the Reds. Galatasaray's passionate home support makes them one of the toughest away trips in European football, but Liverpool's pedigree in this competition speaks for itself.

6. Atletico Madrid vs. Tottenham Hotspur

Simeone's Atletico take on Spurs in a tie that promises drama. Tottenham have shown inconsistency but possess the firepower to hurt anyone, while Atletico's defensive organization and big-game experience give them an edge.

7. Atalanta vs. Bayern Munich

Atalanta, the ever-impressive Italian side, face Bayern Munich, who finished second in the league phase. Atalanta's high-pressing style against Bayern's technical quality should produce a fascinating tactical contest.

8. Bodo/Glimt vs. Sporting CP

The dark horses meet. Bodo/Glimt continue their remarkable European story, while Sporting CP carry Portuguese pedigree. Both teams have earned their place, and this is a chance for one of them to reach the quarter-finals.

Key Storylines to Watch

• Arsenal's perfect record: Can they carry their flawless league phase form into the knockouts? History shows the league phase leaders don't always go all the way.
• English dominance: Six Premier League teams in the Round of 16 — Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City, Newcastle, and Tottenham. Could we see an all-English quarter-final?
• Real Madrid's pedigree: Never count out the record Champions League winners, regardless of the draw.
• Underdogs rising: Bodo/Glimt and Galatasaray have proven they belong at this level. A deep run from either would be one of the stories of the season.

Host Your Own Champions League Auction Draft

The Champions League knockout stage is the perfect time to run a fantasy football auction draft with your friends. Build squads from the remaining teams, set budgets, and bid on the players you think will star in the knockouts.

What's Next?

The first legs kick off on March 10-11, 2026, with return fixtures on March 17-18. The quarter-final and semi-final draw has already been mapped out, so teams know their potential path to the final. With the quality on show, this promises to be one of the most competitive knockout stages in Champions League history.