The Champions League season is set to kick off next week, signaling the start of thrilling matchups as Europe’s elite clubs embark on their quest for glory. This year’s league phase promises to deliver plenty of excitement and several can’t-miss matchups.
Let’s take a look at four key games in this league phase that you really should keep an eye on.
Bayern Munich vs Manchester City (September 22)
The opening game of the UWCL season features Bayern Munich hosting Manchester City, both teams eager to make an early statement at each other’s expense.
While City missed the tournament last season, they clinched the WSL and FA Cup double in England, enhancing their squad over the summer to ensure they can compete on the European stage this year.
Bayern, on the other hand, ruled German football last season with their own league and cup double. They fell to eventual champions Barça in the Champions League semifinals but are equipped to contend for the title again this time around.
This matchup features two of the game’s top strikers: Bayern’s Pernille Harder and City’s Khadija Shaw. The attacking prowess of both teams promises a high-octane thriller.
Barcelona vs Arsenal (November 11)
This clash serves as a rematch of the thrilling 2025 final, which Arsenal won against all odds. Now, Barça is itching for revenge while Arsenal hopes to add another upset to their accomplishments against the Catalan giants.
Barcelona’s summer overhaul, especially in the wake of Alexia Putellas’s departure, is widely discussed. Their upcoming matches, starting with Arsenal, will serve as crucial tests for their newly formed squad early in the season.
Last season’s top scorer, Ewa Pajor, will lead Barça’s charge against Arsenal’s Alessia Russo, but it’s the midfield that will likely determine the outcome. Aitana Bonmatí is set to return from injury, looking to reclaim her previous dominance while Clàudia Pina steps into the space left by Putellas. They’ll face off against Mariona Caldentey, a former Barça player who has become one of Europe’s elite since joining Arsenal.
Arsenal vs OL Lyonnes (November 19)
The two teams have faced each other in the semifinals for the past two seasons, resulting in Arsenal reaching the 2025 final, only for Lyon to gain retribution last time. Their previous encounters have been full of excitement, with both second legs showcasing remarkable drama.
After losing last season’s final to Barcelona, Lyon made a huge summer signing, acquiring Salma Paralluelo from Barça, hoping she will be the key to their ambitions of dethroning the champions.
Both teams are keen to secure a Top 4 finish in the league standings for a guaranteed quarterfinal spot, making the three points from this direct matchup potentially pivotal.
Bayern Munich vs Barcelona (December 16)
The league phase finale brings a rematch of last year’s semifinals as both teams aim to finish top of their group and secure home advantage in the knockout stages. This game might very well determine who ends up claiming that coveted first position.
For Bayern, it’s a chance at revenge after a close call against the eventual champions last year. This clash is likely to be Barça’s most challenging test aside from their home fixture against Arsenal. By December, Barça should be in full swing, and they may see this matchup as an opportunity to assert themselves as clear favorites heading into the knockout rounds.
