2025-26 UEFA Champions League Knockout Rounds: Bracket, Key Dates, and More

- Get all the details on the UEFA Champions League knockout rounds, including the playoff round matchups, key dates, and bracket implications for top clubs like Real Madrid and PSG.

UEFA Champions League 2025-26 Knockout Rounds Overview

The UEFA Champions League playoff round draw has set the stage for exciting matchups in the round of 16. Clubs like Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are gearing up for tough battles to advance.

Knockout Playoff Round Details

Only the 16 teams finishing ninth to 24th in the league phase will compete in this round. Key dates for the playoff round are Feb. 17-18 for first legs and Feb. 24-25 for second legs.

Fixtures and Possible Round-of-16 Ties

The matchups include Borussia Dortmund vs. Atalanta and Benfica vs. Real Madrid, among others. The top eight clubs await their potential opponents for the round of 16.

Important Dates and Impact of League Phase Finish

The draw for the round of 16 will take place on Feb. 27, shaping the rest of the knockout rounds. Last season's example highlights the significance of league phase standings on knockout matchups.

Key dates to remember include the round of 16 in March, quarterfinals in April, and the final in Budapest on May 30.