When Is the UEFA Champions League Play-Off Draw?
The league phase is over and the road to the title enters its most intense stretch. The Champions League is ready for the draw that will define the tournament’s most dangerous matchups.
The Champions Enters Its Most Dangerous Phase
The league phase of the UEFA Champions League came to an end after a dramatic Matchday 8 filled with late goals, comebacks, and last-second qualifications. With the top eight teams already securing direct passage to the round of 16, the focus now shifts to the 16 clubs that must fight for survival in the newly introduced play-offs.
This stage represents a turning point in the competition. There is no margin for error, and every tie has the potential to eliminate a European giant earlier than expected — something that has quickly become a hallmark of the new format.
The Eight Teams Already Waiting in the Round of 16
Direct qualification painted a clear picture of English dominance during the league phase. Five Premier League clubs secured their places without needing to play the play-off, joined by representatives from Spain, Germany, and Portugal.
The teams already qualified for the round of 16 are: Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, Barcelona, Chelsea, Sporting Lisbon, and Manchester City.
The biggest surprise was the absence of the defending champions, as well as Italian and French clubs, from the top eight.
The 16 Clubs Heading to the Play-Offs
The play-off round will feature several heavyweight European clubs, guaranteeing high-voltage matchups starting in February. Teams such as Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Inter, Juventus, and Atlético de Madrid will all be forced to battle for a place in the last 16, alongside clubs riding momentum after dramatic qualifications.
One of the most striking stories was Benfica’s qualification, sealed by a stoppage-time goal that eliminated Marseille in the final moments of the league phase.
Play-Off Draw Date and Match Schedule
The Champions League 2025–26 play-off draw will take place on Friday, January 30, 2026. On that day, the matchups will be set to determine which teams join the eight direct qualifiers in the round of 16.
The first legs will be played on February 17 and 18, while the return legs are scheduled for February 24 and 25, 2026.
Where to Watch the Draw in the United States
In the United States, the play-off draw will begin at 6:00 a.m. ET and will be broadcast live through UEFA’s official platforms. A key event that will shape the rest of the tournament and define one of the most unpredictable phases of the Champions League.
