Ranking the eight 2025-26 Champions League quarter-finalists

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We are down to the final eight in the Champions League after a riveting round of 16 that saw an astonishing 68 goals scored across 16 matches. Seven of the eight ties saw one team score at least four goals. Two teams scored eight while Bayern Munich hit double figures against Atalanta on aggregate. We don't know if the quarter-finals will be as explosive, but we do know that they will provide us with some classic matchups.

Why it matters

The Champions League quarter-finals feature some of the biggest names in European football, including perennial contenders Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona. The outcome of these matches will determine who advances to the semi-finals and has a chance to lift the prestigious trophy on May 30th in Budapest.

The details

The Athletic's projections, powered by Opta, have assessed each team's chances of making it out of the league phase and each knockout round. Arsenal are currently ranked as the favorites to win the Champions League, with a 30% chance according to the projections. Bayern Munich, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain are also among the top contenders. The quarter-final matchups will feature some classic rivalries, such as Real Madrid vs. Bayern Munich and Barcelona vs. Atletico Madrid.

• The quarter-final matches will take place in early April 2026.
• The semi-final matches will be played in late April and early May 2026.
• The Champions League final will be held on May 30, 2026 in Budapest, Hungary.

What’s next

The quarter-final matches will take place in early April 2026, with the semi-finals following in late April and early May. The Champions League final will be held on May 30, 2026 in Budapest, Hungary.