The 2025/26 UEFA Champions League has reached its business end. Following a dramatic round of 16 that saw traditional powerhouses clash and underdogs falter, the quarter-final lineup is officially set. Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Arsenal will be the favourites on the road to Budapest.
Real Madrid knocked out Man City in the last round, while Bayern Munich thrashed Atalanta. In the other match, PSG cruised past Chelsea with an 8-2 thrashing. Arsenal continued their fine form against Leverkusen, and Liverpool overcame a 1-0 deficit to beat Galatasaray.
The UCL Quarter-final lineup:
Real Madrid vs. Bayern MunichAfter defeating Manchester City 5-1 on aggregate, Real Madrid will take on Bayern Munich, who looked fearsome in their 10-2 crushing of Atalanta. Madrid and Bayern are two of the European powerhouses and have won multiple UCL titles. This will be, without doubt, the headline act of the Champions League quarterfinal line-up.
PSG vs. LiverpoolParis Saint-Germain, the reigning champions, are facing a significant obstacle in Liverpool as they look to defend their title. In the round of 16, PSG showed off their might by defeating Chelsea with eight goals, but Liverpool showed their strength by overcoming a first-leg deficit against Galatasaray at a boisterous Anfield. With both teams stacked with attacking talent, it would be a thrilling encounter over both legs.
Barcelona vs. Atlético MadridFollowing an incredible 7-2 second-leg victory over Newcastle, led by Lamine Yamal`s brilliance, Barcelona enters as the form team. After defeating Tottenham, Atleti will use their characteristic defensive tenacity to hinder Barça`s free-flowing offence. Both the La Liga giants, fresh from their Spanish Cup semi-final meeting, will hope to put on another classic for the fans.
Arsenal vs. Sporting CPAfter easily defeating Bayer Leverkusen, Arsenal is still the Premier League`s best chance. They take on Sporting CP, who astonishingly overcame a 3–0 deficit against Bodø/Glimt to deliver the tournament`s most compelling narrative thus far. While Sporting are capable of an upset, Arsenal will start as heavy favourites.
The first legs are scheduled for April 7–8, with the decisive returns on April 14–15.
