The 2025/26 UEFA Champions League officially kicked off on September 16, 2025, with a fresh format that promises more drama and high-stakes matches. For the first time, 36 teams compete in a single league phase, replacing the traditional group stage. Each club plays eight matches—four at home and four away—against different opponents, making every fixture critical and increasing the intensity from the very start.

The league phase runs until January 28, 2026, with all final-matchday games played simultaneously. The top eight teams advance directly to the Round of 16, while teams finishing 9th to 24th enter a knockout playoff for a place in the knockout rounds. Clubs ranked 25th to 36th are eliminated, making early performance essential. This new system ensures every match counts and keeps fans on the edge of their seats.

This week features several highly anticipated clashes that are already drawing attention: Liverpool vs. Atlético de Madrid, Bayern Munich vs. Chelsea, and Ajax vs. Inter Milan. These matches promise intense competition and showcase some of the top stars in European football. The season will culminate at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest, Hungary, on May 30, 2026, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling conclusion in one of the most competitive editions of the Champions League yet.