Think you know who will dominate the Champions League? Think again! This season’s tournament is brimming with dark horses ready to cause chaos and send shockwaves through European football. From the Velodrome to Aspmyra Stadion, unexpected contenders are preparing to upset the odds. Which underdog will deliver the biggest surprise?
The 2025-26 Champions League season promises a thrilling spectacle, not just from the traditional powerhouses but from a cadre of underrated teams poised to defy expectations. This year, the tournament is ripe for upsets, with several clubs possessing the tactical acumen and fiery spirit to challenge Europe’s elite and leave their mark on European football.
Olympique Marseille, under the guidance of tactical innovator Roberto De Zerbi, stands out as a fascinating project. Despite recent internal squad adjustments involving players like Adrien Rabiot, their second-place finish in Ligue 1 last season propelled them into the Champions League, marking De Zerbi’s second managerial foray into this prestigious competition. Playing at the iconic Velodrome, a fortress known for its electrifying atmosphere, Marseille will undoubtedly be a formidable opponent for any visitor, seeking to leverage their home advantage against top European rivals.
Turkish champions Galatasaray return to Europe’s grandest stage as genuine dark horses in the Champions League. Their astute summer signings, notably securing Victor Osimhen on a permanent deal, alongside key free-agent acquisitions, signal a clear statement of ambition from Okan Buruk’s side. The daunting atmosphere of their home stadium, fueled by one of the world’s most passionate fanbases, presents an immense challenge, transforming every home fixture into a high-stakes battle for any European giant.
Athletic Bilbao, skillfully helmed by Ernesto Valverde, consistently proves to be a tenacious adversary. Their success in retaining star forward Nico Williams, who extended his contract amidst strong interest from Barcelona, underscores their resolve and commitment to their project. A robust start to their LaLiga campaign, coupled with their first Champions League appearance since 2014-15, suggests Athletic Bilbao is primed to make a significant impact with their resilient style of play and challenge established European powerhouses.
PSV Eindhoven, under Peter Bosz, enters this season’s Champions League with an even stronger roster than the one that impressed last year. While they reached the round of 16 in the previous format, their current squad, enhanced by talents like Dennis Man from Parma and Paul Wanner from Bayern Munich, promises greater depth and attacking prowess. The return of USMNT striker Ricardo Pepi from injury adds another dangerous dimension to their potent offense, making PSV Eindhoven a team to watch.
Making history, Norwegian club Bodø/Glimt qualifies for the Champions League for the first time, ending an 18-year drought for Norwegian representation. Their consistent improvement over the past decade saw them reach the UEFA Europa League semifinals last season, showcasing their potential. Playing their home games in the far northern city of Bodø, where sub-zero temperatures are common, their Aspmyra Stadion becomes a chilling crucible, providing a unique home advantage against any European giant daring to visit.
These formidable underdog teams, from the tactical brilliance of Marseille to the historic debutants Bodø/Glimt, embody the unpredictable nature of the Champions League. Their blend of strategic recruitment, passionate home support, and a burning desire to upset the established order sets the stage for a compelling tournament where every match holds the potential for a seismic shock, creating unforgettable moments in European football history.
