The wait is over! The UEFA Champions League draw has delivered some truly mouth-watering fixtures. From historic rematches to epic long-haul journeys, which of these 10 must-watch games will have you glued to your screen? Get ready for football at its absolute finest!
The highly anticipated 2025-26 UEFA Champions League draw has ignited fervent excitement across the football world, setting the stage for an array of thrilling encounters in the upcoming League Stage. Fans are eagerly anticipating these “must-watch games” that promise drama, rivalries, and unforgettable moments as Europe’s elite clubs vie for continental supremacy.
This season introduces a revamped format featuring 36 participating teams, all competing in a single League Stage where each side will play eight matches – four at home and four away. The stakes are incredibly high, with only the top 24 teams from this unified league advancing to the knockout rounds, creating a relentless battle for progression in “European football.”
While Thursday’s draw in Monaco meticulously paired teams and assigned hosts for each fixture, the definitive schedule remains pending. UEFA has committed to releasing the full slate of times and dates no later than Saturday, August 30. This delay ensures careful coordination, preventing any scheduling conflicts with the Europa League and Europa Conference League, thereby maximizing viewing opportunities for all “club football” enthusiasts.
Among the standout “soccer matchups” revealed, the clash between financial powerhouse Manchester City and Norwegian underdogs Bodø/Glimt immediately captures attention. Despite a significant disparity in resources, Bodø/Glimt’s remarkable Cinderella run to the Europa League semifinals last year and their unique status as the northernmost club ever to qualify for the Champions League main stage promise a challenging away day for Pep Guardiola’s side in the Arctic Circle, making it a compelling narrative.
Another captivating fixture involves Borussia Dortmund and Juventus, a rematch echoing the 1996-97 Champions League final, famously won 3-1 by the German side. This encounter holds particular interest for USMNT midfielder Weston McKennie, who began his European journey with Dortmund’s fierce rivals, Schalke 04, adding a personal layer to this historic “football analysis.” Meanwhile, Chelsea will face first-time qualifiers Pafos, only the fourth Cypriot team to reach this stage, presenting a David vs. Goliath scenario.
Geographical extremes define Real Madrid’s daunting 3,986-mile journey to face Kairat, the reigning champions from the Kazakhstan Premier League. Kairat proudly holds the distinction of being the easternmost team ever to qualify for the “UEFA Champions League,” and this monumental trip could mark the longest away day in the tournament’s rich history. Elsewhere, FC Barcelona has reportedly requested an away fixture to commence their campaign, navigating potential stadium conflicts.
The passion of the terraces will be palpable when Olympique Marseille hosts Newcastle United at the iconic Stade Vélodrome. Both clubs boast fiercely loyal fan bases, and with both sides frequently missing out on Europe’s premier competition, expect an electrifying atmosphere as they leave everything on the pitch. Additionally, USMNT fans will relish the chance to see Sergiño Dest and Ricardo Pepi of PSV test their mettle against Premier League champions Liverpool at Anfield, another “must-watch game” for North American audiences.
All the enthralling action of the 2025-26 “UEFA Champions League” will be broadcast across the CBS family of networks, with comprehensive coverage, including a live “whiparound” show for goal highlights and exciting moments, available on Paramount+. The stage is set for an unforgettable season of high-stakes “European football” entertainment.
