This is how teams can qualify for the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League knockout stages ahead of the last league-phase fixtures.
The UEFA Champions League Phase Reaches a Defining Moment
The 2025-26 UEFA Champions League league phase is entering its most intense stage. With that, the final matchweek is set to decide the fate of plenty of clubs across Europe. With only one round of games left, the battle for knockout qualification has reached a dramatic high. Now, every goal, every point, and every result could reshape the standings in minutes. The format has raised the stakes even higher. The teams are fighting not only to survive but also to secure direct entry into the round of 16.
Some of Europe’s biggest names are still locked in this race. Clubs like Liverpool, Barcelona, Tottenham Hotspur and reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain are pushing hard for top-eight positions. That would allow them to skip the playoff round entirely. Manchester City are also in the mix. This comes despite them suffering a surprising 3-1 defeat against Bodo/Glimt.
All key matches will be played on January 28, creating a unique scenario. This format ensures that the final table will remain uncertain until the last whistle. Teams will watch not only their own matches but also results elsewhere. They know that one late goal in another stadium could change everything.
The qualification system is clear but tough. Teams finishing from first to eighth move directly into the round of 16. Those placed between ninth and twenty-fourth must go through a knockout playoff round in February. So, clubs that are ranked from twenty-fifth to thirty-sixth are going to be eliminated. That said, there is no safety net of dropping into the Europa League. This structure has turned the final matchweek into one of the most dramatic moments of the season. Now, pressure and survival will be at its peak in a single night of football.
Who Has Already Secured a Place in the Knockouts?
As the final matchweek nears, only a small group of teams can take a sigh of relief. Two clubs have already guaranteed direct qualification to the round of 16. Arsenal are assured of finishing in either first or second place. That said, it secures them a top spot and a strong position in the standings. Their consistent performances across the league phase have put them beyond reach of most rivals.
Elsewhere, Bayern Munich have also booked their place in the round of 16. This comes after their solid 2-0 victory over Union Saint-Gilloise. That result confirmed their progress and removed any doubt about their status among Europe’s elite this season.
Beyond these two teams, a larger group has at least secured a place in the knockout playoff round. This list includes Real Madrid, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, Paris Saint-Germain, Newcastle United, Chelsea, Barcelona, Sporting CP, Man City, Atletico Madrid, Atalanta, Inter Milan and Juventus.
For these teams, the big task now is not simply survival but ambition. Finishing in the top eight would offer a huge advantage, allowing them to avoid the playoff round. That reduces the risk of elimination as well. At the same time, dropping lower in the standings could mean facing tough opponents in February. The final matchweek therefore remains a key opportunity for these clubs to strengthen their path toward European glory.
The Clubs Still Fighting for Survival or Glory
While some teams have secured safety, a much bigger group remains in uncertainty. Seventeen clubs will either reach the knockout rounds or face elimination depending on the final results. This group includes Borussia Dortmund, Galatasaray, Qarabag, Marseille, Bayer Leverkusen, AS Monaco, PSV Eindhoven, Athletic Club, Olympiacos, Napoli, F.C. Kobenhavn, Club Brugge, Bodo/Glimt, Benfica, Pafos, Union Saint-Gilloise and Ajax.
For these teams, the final matchweek is not just about progress but survival. A win could likely push them into the playoff places. Meanwhile, a loss could end their European campaign instantly. The margins are very small, and the pressure is huge. Every tactical decision, every substitution, and every individual moment could determine whether a season continues or stops next week.
At the other end of the table, four clubs have already been eliminated. Eintracht Frankfurt, Slavia Prague, Villarreal and Kairat Almaty are out of this elite European competition. Given that, these teams have no chance to recover. Their exits show how unforgiving the new format can be. In this new format, early mistakes or missed opportunities can lead to quick elimination.
Final League-Phase Matchweek
The new format which was brought in during the 2024-25 season has a key part to play. Due to that, highest placed clubs will not be facing each other this early. They could meet in the later stages of the knockout rounds.
Not to forget, the teams’ league-phase finish will be very crucial in the competition. The final standings are going to shape the knockout games ahead in the UCL.
As the final whistle approaches on January 28, the Champions League will deliver one of its most dramatic nights in recent years. The race for the knockout rounds is not just about rankings but about identity, ambition, and belief. Some clubs will celebrate progress, others will prepare for tough playoff battles. In addition, plenty of the clubs will see their European dreams come to an end as well.
What makes this moment special is its unpredictability and uncertainty. Until the last goal is scored, nothing is guaranteed. That is exactly what makes the new UEFA Champions League structure such a powerful and incredible event.
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