The eight queens of Europe and a quarter-finals board that offers stellar challenges

The race to the Puskás Aréna in Budapest enters its decisive phase. Following an electrifying series of round of 16 matches, the UEFA Champions League 2025/2026 has defined the lineup of the eight teams that will chase the most prestigious trophy in Europe. The last Italian team remaining, Atalanta, was eliminated by a dominant Bayern Munich, thus completing the quarterfinal bracket and heralding high-profile matchups, historic rematches, continental superclassicos, and heated derbies.

Bayern Munich–Real Madrid, the "Superclassico" of Europe

No duel has marked the history of the European Cup/Champions League as much as that between the Bavarians and the Blancos. The upcoming match will be the 29th clash between the two powerhouses, with a perfectly balanced record: 12 wins each. The Bayern of Vincent Kompany reaches the quarterfinals after overwhelming Atalanta with an aggregate score of 10-2 (6-1 in Bergamo and 4-1 at the Allianz Arena). Awaiting them is the Real Madrid of Carlo Ancelotti, who decisively eliminated Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, closing the two-legged tie with a score of 5-1. For the Germans, it is also an opportunity to avenge the painful elimination suffered in the semifinals in May 2024.

Liverpool–Paris Saint-Germain, clash of titans

A stellar showdown between the Reds and the reigning champions of PSG. The Liverpool of Arne Slot secured their passage by overturning the 1-0 defeat from the first leg in Istanbul, overwhelming Galatasaray at Anfield with a clear 4-0 victory. Key players in the comeback included Szoboszlai, Ekitiké, Gravenberch, and Momo Salah, who scored his 50th goal in the Champions League. On the other side, Paris Saint-Germain under Luis Enrique comfortably surpassed Chelsea with an aggregate score of 8-2, winning 3-0 even at Stamford Bridge.

Arsenal–Sporting Lisbon, the Gunners against the revelation

The Arsenal of Mikel Arteta continues its march: 2-0 against Bayer Leverkusen at the Emirates Stadium thanks to goals from Eze and Rice, for a 3-1 overall score. Now the Gunners will face the big surprise of the competition, Sporting Lisbon. The Portuguese team has achieved a remarkable feat: after the 3-0 defeat in the first leg against Bodø/Glimt, they turned it around with a stunning 5-0 victory in extra time. A three-goal comeback not seen in European cups since the 1963/64 season.

Atlético Madrid–Barcelona, high-tension Iberian derby

The closing of the bracket features an intense all-Spanish showdown. Atlético Madrid reaches the quarter-finals after a thrilling round of 16 against Tottenham, winning 7-5 on aggregate despite a 3-2 loss in the return leg in London. Diego Simeone's Colchoneros will face a Barcelona in sparkling form: driven by an irresistible Lamine Yamal and the flair of Raphinha, the blaugrana overwhelmed Newcastle with an unmistakable 7-2 across the two matches.

The path to Budapest

The road to the final is set and does not involve any further draws. The winner between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid will face in the semi-finals whoever advances between Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool. On the other side, whoever prevails between Arsenal and Sporting Lisbon will meet one of Barcelona and Atlético Madrid. The conclusion is scheduled for May 30, 2026 at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest, which will host the final for the first time for the title of European Champion.