The Road to Budapest: UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Guide

The UEFA Champions League is back, and the 2025/26 season promises to be one of the most competitive ever. With the final set for 30 May 2026 in Budapest, Europe’s best clubs will fight through the new league phase for a chance to lift football’s most prestigious trophy. Here’s your complete guide on who’s in, key fixtures, how to watch, and how to bet.

Which teams are in the league phase?

A total of 36 teams have secured their place in the 2025/26 Champions League league phase, including automatic qualifiers and play-off winners.

England: Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham, Newcastle
Spain: Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atlético de Madrid, Athletic Club, Villarreal
Italy: Napoli, Inter, Atalanta, Juventus
Germany: Bayern München, Bayer Leverkusen, Eintracht Frankfurt, Dortmund
France: Paris Saint-Germain, Marseille, Monaco
Netherlands: PSV, Ajax
Portugal: Benfica*, Sporting CP
Belgium: Club Brugge*, Union Saint-Gilloise
Türkiye: Galatasaray
Czechia: Slavia Praha
Greece: Olympiacos
Denmark: Copenhagen*
Norway: Bodø/Glimt*
Cyprus: Pafos*
Kazakhstan: Kairat Almaty*
Azerbaijan: Qarabağ*

(*Play-off winners)

Notably, Paris Saint-Germain earned automatic entry both as Champions League holders and through their domestic league, while Tottenham booked their spot as Europa League winners.

When are the Champions League league phase matches?

• Matchday 1: 16–18 September 2025

• Matchday 2: 30 September–1 October 2025

• Matchday 3: 21/22 October 2025

• Matchday 4: 4/5 November 2025

• Matchday 5: 25/26 November 2025

• Matchday 6: 9/10 December 2025

• Matchday 7: 20/21 January 2026

• Matchday 8: 28 January 2026

Knockout phase schedule

• Play-offs: 17/18 & 24/25 February 2026

• Round of 16: 10/11 & 17/18 March 2026

• Quarter-finals: 7/8 & 14/15 April 2026

• Semi-finals: 28/29 April & 5/6 May 2026

• Final: 30 May 2026, Puskás Aréna, Budapest

How to watch in South Africa

Fans in South Africa can catch every match live on SuperSport TV, which will broadcast both the league phase and knockout stages. Key fixtures will also be available on streaming platforms linked to SuperSport for mobile viewing.

How to bet on the Champions League

World Sports Betting offers the widest range of markets for every Champions League game. Whether you’re betting pre-match or going live in-play, WSB has you covered.

Popular markets include:

• Match Result (1X2): Back the home team, away team, or the draw.

• Both Teams to Score (BTTS): A favourite for high-scoring fixtures.

• Over/Under Goals: Perfect for games where you expect plenty of attacking action.

• First Goalscorer: Back your striker to strike first.

• Handicap Betting: Great value when favourites meet underdogs.

To get started, simply sign up at worldsportsbetting.co.za, deposit securely, and place your bets on the biggest stage in football.

Final Thoughts

The 2025/26 UEFA Champions League is set to deliver blockbuster nights and unforgettable drama, with Europe’s giants and underdogs alike chasing glory on the road to Budapest. Whether you’re following your favourite club, watching every match live, or betting on the action, World Sports Betting is your ultimate destination for Champions League odds and insights.

👉 Bet now at World Sports Betting