Our predictions for the Champions League playoffs

It’s time for the first leg playoffs of the Champions League 2025-2026. Which teams will manage to qualify for the round of 16? Here are our favorites for these two-legged matchups.

Galatasaray – Juventus

Even though the Turkish giants remain dominant at home, it is hard to imagine the Old Lady exiting the competition this early. Juventus have struggled this season but are unbeaten in their last five matches in the league phase.

Our prediction: Juventus to qualify. The Italians may be put under pressure in Turkey before taking control in the second leg.

Borussia Dortmund – Atalanta

Behind an untouchable Bayern in the Bundesliga, Dortmund are enjoying a solid domestic campaign. Yet Atalanta finished ahead of Dortmund in the Champions League while struggling in Serie A. Will they continue to overperform in these playoffs?

Our prediction: Borussia Dortmund to qualify. Dortmund will make the difference at home and manage the return leg

Monaco – Paris SG

A 100% French showdown. As in Ligue 1, PSG are overwhelming favorites and it is hard to see who could dethrone them domestically. Will the defending champions really be knocked out this early in a major upset?

Our prediction: Paris Saint-Germain to qualify. PSG are simply untouchable in France. Expect a flood of goals.

Benfica – Real Madrid

Benfica caused a surprise by beating Real and keeping Los Blancos out of the top eight in the process. Can the Portuguese team repeat that feat? A Real Madrid elimination would be a genuine earthquake.

Our prediction: Real Madrid  to qualify. Real will go through... but not without suffering. The squad is struggling and Madrid’s play has been unconvincing. A Real Madrid elimination would be a genuine earthquake.

Qarabag – Newcastle

A comfortable two-legged tie for Newcastle? Everything suggests the English team will come through with ease. Yet Qarabag has all the makings of the perfect trap…

Our prediction: Newcastle to qualify. The match at St James’ Park will leave no room for suspense.

Olympiakos – Leverkusen

A similar scenario here: Bayer should qualify, but a trip to Greece is never easy. Will Olympiakos pull off an upset?

Our prediction: Leverkusen to qualify. The Germans will get the job done.

Bodø/Glimt – Inter Milan

Despite squeezing through qualification, Bodø/Glimt’s Norwegian team are in excellent form. After a very poor start, they collected seven points from their last three league phase matches to fight their way into the playoffs. Their last two victims: Manchester City and Atlético Madrid.

Our prediction: Inter to qualify. It’s only logical that the Italians will qualify, but the scoreline will be much tighter than expected.

Club Brugge - Atlético Madrid

A colossal playoff matchup for Bruges, who face one of Spain’s giants. While Brugge produced a heroic campaign, Atlético have disappointed. Is this the perfect moment for Simeone’s men to bounce back?

Our prediction: Club Brugge to qualify. Bruges can make the difference at home, and their counter-attacking strength could trouble the Colchoneros’ defense.

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