🕷️ Crawler Inspector

- [ON SI](https://www.si.com/fannation/) - [SI SWIMSUIT](https://swimsuit.si.com/) - [SI NEWSLETTERS](https://www.si.com/newsletters) - [SI TICKETS](https://www.sitickets.com/category/sports?utm_source=si&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=main-nav) - [SI RESORTS](https://www.sportsillustratedresorts.com/) - [SI SHOPS](https://www.amazon.com/sportsillustrated) - [MY ACCOUNT](https://si.com/myaccount) - [SUBSCRIBE NOW](https://subscribe.si.com/servlet/OrdersGateway?cds_mag_code=SPI&cds_page_id=284392) - #### [NFL COMBINE](https://www.si.com/nfl/combine) - #### [WORLD BASEBALL CLASSIC](https://www.si.com/baseball/world-baseball-classic) - #### [NFL](http://www.si.com/nfl) - #### [NBA](http://www.si.com/nba) - #### [SOCCER](http://www.si.com/soccer) - #### [FANTASY](http://www.si.com/fantasy) - #### [NEWSLETTERS](https://www.si.com/newsletters) - #### MORE SPORTS - #### BETTING - #### MORE FROM SI - #### STORE - #### SI NETWORK [%20%20--%3E%0A%3Csvg%20version%3D%221.1%22%20id%3D%22Layer_1%22%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20xmlns%3Axlink%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F1999%2Fxlink%22%20x%3D%220px%22%20y%3D%220px%22%0A%09%20width%3D%2239px%22%20height%3D%2240px%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%2039%2040%22%20enable-background%3D%22new%200%200%2039%2040%22%20xml%3Aspace%3D%22preserve%22%3E%0A%3Cpath%20fill%3D%22%23FFFFFF%22%20d%3D%22M38.5%2C7H28.2v26h10.3V7z%22%2F%3E%0A%3Cpath%20fill-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20clip-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20fill%3D%22%23FFFFFF%22%20d%3D%22M26.1%2C25.5c0%2C5.8-4.1%2C7.5-12.9%2C7.5C3.9%2C33%2C0%2C31.2%2C0%2C25.2v-1.1h11.6%0A%09v2.4c0%2C0.7%2C0.1%2C1.4%2C1.2%2C1.4c1%2C0%2C1.2-0.4%2C1.2-1.3v-0.9c0-1.6-0.9-1.6-3.5-2.2C2.2%2C21.7%2C0%2C19.7%2C0%2C15.3v-0.9C0%2C9.3%2C5.5%2C7%2C12.9%2C7%0A%09c10.2%2C0%2C12.8%2C2.6%2C12.8%2C7.4v1.8h-11v-2.9c0-0.6-0.4-1.1-1.2-1.1c-0.6%2C0-1.2%2C0.4-1.2%2C1.1v0.9c0%2C1.5%2C0.9%2C2%2C3.3%2C2.5%0A%09c8%2C1.6%2C10.5%2C3.3%2C10.5%2C7.5V25.5z%22%2F%3E%0A%3C%2Fsvg%3E%0A)](https://www.si.com/) - [WBC](https://www.si.com/baseball/world-baseball-classic) - [NFL](https://www.si.com/nfl) - [NBA](https://www.si.com/nba) - [MLB](https://www.si.com/mlb) - [NCAAB](https://www.si.com/college/college-basketball) - [NCAAF](https://www.si.com/college/college-football) - [SOCCER](https://www.si.com/soccer) - [GOLF](https://www.si.com/golf) - [FANTASY](https://www.si.com/fantasy) - [BETTING](https://www.si.com/betting) - [SI TV](https://www.si.com/si-tv) # Every Club’s Route to Champions League Final Ranked From Easiest to Hardest All remaining Champions League sides know their paths to the showpiece event. [Ewan Ross-Murray](https://www.si.com/author/ewan-rossmurray)\|  Arsenal have been handed a favorable route. \| David Price/Arsenal FC/Getty Images [Add us on ](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=si.com) *** The last 16 draw has set the stage for the remaining phases of the Champions League as participants plan out their routes to May’s final. Kinder to some than others, the draw has forged some tantalizing double-headed duels across the continent, but there was one particular point of interest that appeared after all the balls had been selected. The [Champions League](https://www.si.com/soccer/champions-league) bracket now appears rather lopsided. One half of the draw is notably tougher than the other half. The misfortune of the eight teams forced to fight on a particularly star-studded battleground has been celebrated by the remaining clubs, who boast a much simpler route to glory. But which teams have the easiest and toughest paths to the final? *** ## Champions League 2025–26 Knockout Bracket  The 2025–26 Champions League bracket. \| FotMob *** ## Routes to the Champions Legaue Final Ranked From Easiest to Hardest ## 16\. Arsenal  Arsenal have a great chance to win their first Champions League title. \| Franco Arland/Getty Images The general consensus following the draw’s conclusion was that Lady Luck shone brightly on [Arsenal](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/arsenal). The Gunners were placed on the “Blue Path,” which is the much more straightforward of the two routes to the final, and were handed a clash with Bayer Leverkusen in the last 16—their reward for finishing first in the league phase. Surprise packages Sporting CP or Bodø/Glimt await in the quarterfinal, before a battle with one of Barcelona, Atlético Madrid, Newcastle United or north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur. Tough fixtures, yes, but they could have been much harder. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Leverkusen | | Quarterfinal | Bodø/Glimt, Sporting | | Semifinal | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham | | Final | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | *** ## 15\. Sporting CP  Sporting CP were surprise automatic last 16 qualifiers. \| Maciej Rogowski/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images Sporting CP fortuitously swerved Real Madrid in the last 16 and were instead drawn against fellow over-performers Bodø/Glimt. While that will prove a harder fixture on the field than on paper, it was the favorable choice for the Lisbon giants. A quarterfinal that will almost certainly be against Arsenal is probably as far as Sporting can realistically expect to go. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Bodø/Glimt | | Quarterfinal | Leverkusen, Arsenal | | Semifinal | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham | | Final | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | *** ## 14\. Bodø/Glimt  The fairy-tale story continues. \| PIERO CRUCIATTI/AFP/Getty Images Given that Bodø defeated Manchester City, Atlético Madrid and Inter (twice) to make it to the last 16, they will prove a stern test for any opponent in the remaining knockout stages. A draw with Sporting gives them a strong chance of making the last eight and they will be keeping their fingers crossed for a Leverkusen miracle against Arsenal. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Sporting | | Quarterfinal | Leverkusen, Arsenal | | Semifinal | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham | | Final | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | *** ## 13\. Barcelona  Barcelona find themselves on the easier half of the draw. \| Josep LAGO/AFP/Getty Images Things could have been much, much worse for [Barça](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/barcelona). Not only did they avoid a battle with PSG in the last 16, drawing Newcastle instead, they managed to sidestep the more difficult half of the draw—ensuring battles with the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea, Real Madrid and Manchester City won’t come until the final. La Blaugrana beat Newcastle earlier this season and will be huge favorites to triumph again over two legs. Progression will see them face Tottenham or Atlético, which are fairly kind quarterfinal fixtures—although the latter did just [knock Barça out of the Copa del Rey](https://www.si.com/soccer/barcelona-player-ratings-vs-atletico-madrid-3-3-26). | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Newcastle | | Quarterfinal | Atlético, Tottenham | | Semifinal | Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | | Final | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | *** ## 12\. Atlético Madrid  Atlético Madrid will be pleased with their last 16 draw. \| Alberto Gardin/NurPhoto/Getty Atlético were arguably handed the easiest tie of the last 16. Sure, Spurs boast some quality individuals, but they’re in truly disastrous form and will be more focussed on [Premier League](https://www.si.com/soccer/premier-league) survival than another European trophy. Diego Simeone’s side face a subsequent cash with Newcastle or Barcelona, fancying their chances up against either opponent. The toughest test en route to the final would likely be Arsenal in a possible semifinal—the Gunners won the league phase clash with Atléti 4–0. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Tottenham | | Quarterfinal | Newcastle, Barcelona | | Semifinal | Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | | Final | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | *** ## 11\. Tottenham Hotspur  It could have been worse for struggling Spurs. \| Marc Atkins/Getty Images [Spurs](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/tottenham-hotspur) really have no hope of reaching the Champions League final, let alone winning the competition. While their form has been better in Europe than on the domestic front, they appear likely to be swept aside before the showpiece event rolls around at the end of May. Even if they bypass an inconsistent Atléti team, they will come up against Barça or Newcastle—both of whom will be considered favorites for a quarterfinal showdown. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Atlético | | Quarterfinal | Newcastle, Barcelona | | Semifinal | Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | | Final | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | *** ## 10\. Newcastle United  Newcastle have a tricky last 16 tie. \| Serena Taylor/Newcastle United/Getty Images Should [Newcastle](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/newcastle-united) successfully navigate an arduous tie with Barcelona, the draw opens up for them. Battles with Spurs or Atléti could yield positive outcomes and even conquering Arsenal is not beyond the realms of possibility. However, Eddie Howe’s side have proven tremendously unreliable this season, and appear unlikely to make it beyond the last 16 in the first place. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Barcelona | | Quarterfinal | Atlético, Tottenham | | Semifinal | Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | | Final | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | *** ## 9\. Bayer Leverkusen  Bayer Leverkusen are unlikely to go too far. \| Jürgen Fromme/firo sportphoto/Getty Images Few will give Bayer Leverkusen any hopes of making it beyond the last 16. This is no longer Xabi Alonso’s super team, with an inexperienced side almost certain to be ousted by Arsenal. Leverkusen will need to pull off the performance of their season to merely stay in the tie ahead of the second leg in north London. If a miracle is performed, then Bodø or Sporting await in the last eight. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Arsenal | | Quarterfinal | Bodø/Glimt, Sporting | | Semifinal | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham | | Final | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | *** ## 8\. Liverpool  Arne Slot would have wanted to be on the other side of the bracket. \| Robbie Jay Barratt/AMA/Getty Images [Liverpool](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/liverpool) benefitted from the easier of two possible last 16 adversaries, avoiding Atlético and booking a date with Galatasaray instead. However, the cost of that fortune is that they find themselves on the “Silver Path”—the side of the draw containing the bulk of heavyweights. PSG or Chelsea will be their opposition if they make the quarterfinal stage, followed by one of Bayern Munich, Atalanta, Real Madrid or Man City. Given their underperformance domestically this term, there are few expectations that the six-time champions can claim number seven this term. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Galatasaray | | Quarterfinal | PSG, Chelsea | | Semifinal | Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | | Final | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham, Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | *** ## 7\. Bayern Munich  Bayern will fancy their chances against anyone. \| Wart Brinkerhof/Marcel ter Bals/DeFodi Images/Getty Images Atalanta will prove no pushovers in the last 16 but Bayern Munich should still ease into the last eight. Unfortunately for the German giants, Real Madrid or Man City will line up against them in the quarterfinals—two formidable opponents. Madrid would be favored given their iffy form throughout the campaign, but the Bundesliga champions will then have to overcome one of Liverpool, Galatasaray, Chelsea or PSG in the semis. If Bayern are to win the trophy, they will have to do it the hard way. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Atalanta | | Quarterfinal | Real Madrid, Man City | | Semifinal | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray or Liverpool | | Final | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham, Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | *** ## 6\. Paris Saint-Germain  PSG will be pushed hard in their title defense. \| Valery HACHE/AFP/Getty Images A repeat of last summer’s Club World Cup final will be staged in the last 16, [PSG](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/paris-saint-germain) facing off against the Chelsea side that demolished them. Despite the reigning European champions still operating below last term’s standards, many will regard them as favorites for the rematch. PSG knocked Liverpool out of Europe last season and would likely have to repeat the feat in the quarterfinal, after which they would be forced to topple another big-hitter en route to the final. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Chelsea | | Quarterfinal | Galatasaray, Liverpool | | Semifinal | Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | | Final | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham, Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | *** ## 5\. Chelsea  Chelsea have a tough draw. \| Jacques Feeney/Offside/Offside/Getty Images. [Chelsea](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/chelsea)’s route to the final after the last 16 is identical to PSG’s, but their focus will first be on finding a way past Luis Enrique’s star-studded unit. They at least boast home advantage for the second leg. Liverpool are probable quarterfinal foes and Chelsea will take encouragement from having already beaten the Reds this season in the Premier League. Of their semifinal opponents, they haven’t faced Real Madrid or Bayern this term, but have lost to Atalanta and drawn with Man City. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | PSG | | Quarterfinal | Galatasaray, Liverpool | | Semifinal | Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | | Final | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham, Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | *** ## 4\. Manchester City  Things won’t be easy for Man City. \| Robbie Jay Barratt/AMA/Getty Images For the umpteenth season on the spin, [Man City](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/manchester-city) face Real Madrid in the knockout stage of the Champions League. The Cityzens have already beaten the record European champions during the league phase, triumphing at the Santiago Bernabéu to offer them belief ahead of the upcoming last 16 clash. Given Madrid’s inconsistencies and injuries, City will be expected to progress, and Pep Guardiola will then likely be greeted by former apprentice Vincent Kompany and his Bayern team. A battle with Liverpool, Chelsea, PSG or Gala would offer an enthralling semifinal. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Real Madrid | | Quarterfinal | Atalanta, Bayern | | Semifinal | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool | | Final | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham, Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | *** ## 3\. Real Madrid  Another Man City encounter awaits. \| Ricardo Larreina/Europa Press/Getty Images [Madrid](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/real-madrid) may be underdogs heading into this year’s iteration of their reoccurring battle with City, but only fools dismiss Los Blancos in the Champions League. Muscle memory often trumps form when it comes to the latter stages. However, adding a 16th European title to their cabinet appears an extremely tall order this year. Álvaro Arbeloa’s performers would have to overcome three European giants to simply reach the final, where they could well face Arsenal or Clásico rivals Barcelona. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Man City | | Quarterfinal | Atalanta, Bayern | | Semifinal | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool | | Final | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham, Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | *** ## 2\. Galatasaray  Galatasaray need a miracle. \| Gerrit van Keulen/Soccrates/Getty Images Galatsaray would have much preferred Spurs to Liverpool for their last 16 clash, but the Turkish side can take solace from having already beaten Slot’s side in Istanbul this term. Victor Osimhen scored the only goal of a hard-fought league phase battle. Still, it will be a tricky tie, especially with the second leg at Anfield, and similarly stern tests lie beyond the last 16. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Liverpool | | Quarterfinal | PSG, Chelsea | | Semifinal | Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | | Final | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham, Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | *** ## 1\. Atalanta  Atalanta are in a perilous position already. \| PIERO CRUCIATTI/AFP/Getty Images Atalanta pulled off an almighty comeback against German opposition in the playoff round, conquering Borussia Dortmund 4–3 on aggregate, but their Champions League journey appears set to end at the last 16. Even if they’re able to pull off an all-time shock and beat Bayern, they will then be fearing clashes with other continental behemoths en route to the final. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Bayern Munich | | Quarterfinal | Real Madrid or Man City | | Semifinal | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray or Liverpool | | Final | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham, Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | *** ### READ THE LATEST CHAMPIONS LEAGUE NEWS, ANALYSIS AND INSIGHT FROM SI FC *** Published 1 hour ago \| Modified 1 hour ago  [EWAN ROSS-MURRAY](https://www.si.com/author/ewan-rossmurray) Ewan Ross-Murray is a freelance soccer writer who focuses primarily on the Premier League. Ewan was born in Leicester, but his heart, and club allegiance, belongs to Liverpool. *** [Home](https://www.si.com/)/[Soccer](https://www.si.com/soccer) [%20%20--%3E%0A%3Csvg%20version%3D%221.1%22%20id%3D%22Layer_1%22%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20xmlns%3Axlink%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F1999%2Fxlink%22%20x%3D%220px%22%20y%3D%220px%22%0A%09%20width%3D%2239px%22%20height%3D%2240px%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%2039%2040%22%20enable-background%3D%22new%200%200%2039%2040%22%20xml%3Aspace%3D%22preserve%22%3E%0A%3Cpath%20fill%3D%22%23FFFFFF%22%20d%3D%22M38.5%2C7H28.2v26h10.3V7z%22%2F%3E%0A%3Cpath%20fill-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20clip-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20fill%3D%22%23FFFFFF%22%20d%3D%22M26.1%2C25.5c0%2C5.8-4.1%2C7.5-12.9%2C7.5C3.9%2C33%2C0%2C31.2%2C0%2C25.2v-1.1h11.6%0A%09v2.4c0%2C0.7%2C0.1%2C1.4%2C1.2%2C1.4c1%2C0%2C1.2-0.4%2C1.2-1.3v-0.9c0-1.6-0.9-1.6-3.5-2.2C2.2%2C21.7%2C0%2C19.7%2C0%2C15.3v-0.9C0%2C9.3%2C5.5%2C7%2C12.9%2C7%0A%09c10.2%2C0%2C12.8%2C2.6%2C12.8%2C7.4v1.8h-11v-2.9c0-0.6-0.4-1.1-1.2-1.1c-0.6%2C0-1.2%2C0.4-1.2%2C1.1v0.9c0%2C1.5%2C0.9%2C2%2C3.3%2C2.5%0A%09c8%2C1.6%2C10.5%2C3.3%2C10.5%2C7.5V25.5z%22%2F%3E%0A%3C%2Fsvg%3E%0A)](https://www.si.com/) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.minutemedia.com/policies/privacy-policy) - [Cookie Policy](https://www.minutemedia.com/policies/cookie-policy) - [Takedown Policy](https://www.minutemedia.com/policies/si-takedown-policy) - [Terms and Conditions](https://www.minutemedia.com/policies/terms-and-conditions-si) - [SI Accessibility Statement](https://www.minutemedia.com/policies/si-accessibility-statement) - [Sitemap](https://www.si.com/sitemap) - [A-Z Index](https://www.si.com/index) - [FAQ](https://www.si.com/faq) - Cookie Settings © 2026 ABG-SI LLC - SPORTS ILLUSTRATED IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF ABG-SI LLC. - All Rights Reserved. The content on this site is for entertainment and educational purposes only. Betting and gambling content is intended for individuals 21+ and is based on individual commentators' opinions and not that of Sports Illustrated or its affiliates, licensees and related brands. All picks and predictions are suggestions only and not a guarantee of success or profit. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER.

The last 16 draw has set the stage for the remaining phases of the Champions League as participants plan out their routes to May’s final. Kinder to some than others, the draw has forged some tantalizing double-headed duels across the continent, but there was one particular point of interest that appeared after all the balls had been selected. The [Champions League](https://www.si.com/soccer/champions-league) bracket now appears rather lopsided. One half of the draw is notably tougher than the other half. The misfortune of the eight teams forced to fight on a particularly star-studded battleground has been celebrated by the remaining clubs, who boast a much simpler route to glory. But which teams have the easiest and toughest paths to the final? *** ## Champions League 2025–26 Knockout Bracket The 2025–26 Champions League bracket. \| FotMob *** ## Routes to the Champions Legaue Final Ranked From Easiest to Hardest ## 16\. Arsenal Arsenal have a great chance to win their first Champions League title. \| Franco Arland/Getty Images The general consensus following the draw’s conclusion was that Lady Luck shone brightly on [Arsenal](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/arsenal). The Gunners were placed on the “Blue Path,” which is the much more straightforward of the two routes to the final, and were handed a clash with Bayer Leverkusen in the last 16—their reward for finishing first in the league phase. Surprise packages Sporting CP or Bodø/Glimt await in the quarterfinal, before a battle with one of Barcelona, Atlético Madrid, Newcastle United or north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur. Tough fixtures, yes, but they could have been much harder. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Leverkusen | | Quarterfinal | Bodø/Glimt, Sporting | | Semifinal | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham | | Final | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | *** ## 15\. Sporting CP Sporting CP were surprise automatic last 16 qualifiers. \| Maciej Rogowski/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images Sporting CP fortuitously swerved Real Madrid in the last 16 and were instead drawn against fellow over-performers Bodø/Glimt. While that will prove a harder fixture on the field than on paper, it was the favorable choice for the Lisbon giants. A quarterfinal that will almost certainly be against Arsenal is probably as far as Sporting can realistically expect to go. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Bodø/Glimt | | Quarterfinal | Leverkusen, Arsenal | | Semifinal | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham | | Final | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | *** ## 14\. Bodø/Glimt The fairy-tale story continues. \| PIERO CRUCIATTI/AFP/Getty Images Given that Bodø defeated Manchester City, Atlético Madrid and Inter (twice) to make it to the last 16, they will prove a stern test for any opponent in the remaining knockout stages. A draw with Sporting gives them a strong chance of making the last eight and they will be keeping their fingers crossed for a Leverkusen miracle against Arsenal. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Sporting | | Quarterfinal | Leverkusen, Arsenal | | Semifinal | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham | | Final | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | *** ## 13\. Barcelona Barcelona find themselves on the easier half of the draw. \| Josep LAGO/AFP/Getty Images Things could have been much, much worse for [Barça](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/barcelona). Not only did they avoid a battle with PSG in the last 16, drawing Newcastle instead, they managed to sidestep the more difficult half of the draw—ensuring battles with the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea, Real Madrid and Manchester City won’t come until the final. La Blaugrana beat Newcastle earlier this season and will be huge favorites to triumph again over two legs. Progression will see them face Tottenham or Atlético, which are fairly kind quarterfinal fixtures—although the latter did just [knock Barça out of the Copa del Rey](https://www.si.com/soccer/barcelona-player-ratings-vs-atletico-madrid-3-3-26). | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Newcastle | | Quarterfinal | Atlético, Tottenham | | Semifinal | Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | | Final | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | *** ## 12\. Atlético Madrid Atlético Madrid will be pleased with their last 16 draw. \| Alberto Gardin/NurPhoto/Getty Atlético were arguably handed the easiest tie of the last 16. Sure, Spurs boast some quality individuals, but they’re in truly disastrous form and will be more focussed on [Premier League](https://www.si.com/soccer/premier-league) survival than another European trophy. Diego Simeone’s side face a subsequent cash with Newcastle or Barcelona, fancying their chances up against either opponent. The toughest test en route to the final would likely be Arsenal in a possible semifinal—the Gunners won the league phase clash with Atléti 4–0. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Tottenham | | Quarterfinal | Newcastle, Barcelona | | Semifinal | Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | | Final | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | *** ## 11\. Tottenham Hotspur It could have been worse for struggling Spurs. \| Marc Atkins/Getty Images [Spurs](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/tottenham-hotspur) really have no hope of reaching the Champions League final, let alone winning the competition. While their form has been better in Europe than on the domestic front, they appear likely to be swept aside before the showpiece event rolls around at the end of May. Even if they bypass an inconsistent Atléti team, they will come up against Barça or Newcastle—both of whom will be considered favorites for a quarterfinal showdown. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Atlético | | Quarterfinal | Newcastle, Barcelona | | Semifinal | Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | | Final | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | *** ## 10\. Newcastle United Newcastle have a tricky last 16 tie. \| Serena Taylor/Newcastle United/Getty Images Should [Newcastle](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/newcastle-united) successfully navigate an arduous tie with Barcelona, the draw opens up for them. Battles with Spurs or Atléti could yield positive outcomes and even conquering Arsenal is not beyond the realms of possibility. However, Eddie Howe’s side have proven tremendously unreliable this season, and appear unlikely to make it beyond the last 16 in the first place. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Barcelona | | Quarterfinal | Atlético, Tottenham | | Semifinal | Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | | Final | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | *** ## 9\. Bayer Leverkusen Bayer Leverkusen are unlikely to go too far. \| Jürgen Fromme/firo sportphoto/Getty Images Few will give Bayer Leverkusen any hopes of making it beyond the last 16. This is no longer Xabi Alonso’s super team, with an inexperienced side almost certain to be ousted by Arsenal. Leverkusen will need to pull off the performance of their season to merely stay in the tie ahead of the second leg in north London. If a miracle is performed, then Bodø or Sporting await in the last eight. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Arsenal | | Quarterfinal | Bodø/Glimt, Sporting | | Semifinal | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham | | Final | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | *** ## 8\. Liverpool Arne Slot would have wanted to be on the other side of the bracket. \| Robbie Jay Barratt/AMA/Getty Images [Liverpool](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/liverpool) benefitted from the easier of two possible last 16 adversaries, avoiding Atlético and booking a date with Galatasaray instead. However, the cost of that fortune is that they find themselves on the “Silver Path”—the side of the draw containing the bulk of heavyweights. PSG or Chelsea will be their opposition if they make the quarterfinal stage, followed by one of Bayern Munich, Atalanta, Real Madrid or Man City. Given their underperformance domestically this term, there are few expectations that the six-time champions can claim number seven this term. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Galatasaray | | Quarterfinal | PSG, Chelsea | | Semifinal | Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | | Final | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham, Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | *** ## 7\. Bayern Munich Bayern will fancy their chances against anyone. \| Wart Brinkerhof/Marcel ter Bals/DeFodi Images/Getty Images Atalanta will prove no pushovers in the last 16 but Bayern Munich should still ease into the last eight. Unfortunately for the German giants, Real Madrid or Man City will line up against them in the quarterfinals—two formidable opponents. Madrid would be favored given their iffy form throughout the campaign, but the Bundesliga champions will then have to overcome one of Liverpool, Galatasaray, Chelsea or PSG in the semis. If Bayern are to win the trophy, they will have to do it the hard way. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Atalanta | | Quarterfinal | Real Madrid, Man City | | Semifinal | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray or Liverpool | | Final | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham, Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | *** ## 6\. Paris Saint-Germain PSG will be pushed hard in their title defense. \| Valery HACHE/AFP/Getty Images A repeat of last summer’s Club World Cup final will be staged in the last 16, [PSG](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/paris-saint-germain) facing off against the Chelsea side that demolished them. Despite the reigning European champions still operating below last term’s standards, many will regard them as favorites for the rematch. PSG knocked Liverpool out of Europe last season and would likely have to repeat the feat in the quarterfinal, after which they would be forced to topple another big-hitter en route to the final. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Chelsea | | Quarterfinal | Galatasaray, Liverpool | | Semifinal | Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | | Final | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham, Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | *** ## 5\. Chelsea Chelsea have a tough draw. \| Jacques Feeney/Offside/Offside/Getty Images. [Chelsea](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/chelsea)’s route to the final after the last 16 is identical to PSG’s, but their focus will first be on finding a way past Luis Enrique’s star-studded unit. They at least boast home advantage for the second leg. Liverpool are probable quarterfinal foes and Chelsea will take encouragement from having already beaten the Reds this season in the Premier League. Of their semifinal opponents, they haven’t faced Real Madrid or Bayern this term, but have lost to Atalanta and drawn with Man City. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | PSG | | Quarterfinal | Galatasaray, Liverpool | | Semifinal | Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | | Final | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham, Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | *** ## 4\. Manchester City Things won’t be easy for Man City. \| Robbie Jay Barratt/AMA/Getty Images For the umpteenth season on the spin, [Man City](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/manchester-city) face Real Madrid in the knockout stage of the Champions League. The Cityzens have already beaten the record European champions during the league phase, triumphing at the Santiago Bernabéu to offer them belief ahead of the upcoming last 16 clash. Given Madrid’s inconsistencies and injuries, City will be expected to progress, and Pep Guardiola will then likely be greeted by former apprentice Vincent Kompany and his Bayern team. A battle with Liverpool, Chelsea, PSG or Gala would offer an enthralling semifinal. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Real Madrid | | Quarterfinal | Atalanta, Bayern | | Semifinal | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool | | Final | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham, Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | *** ## 3\. Real Madrid Another Man City encounter awaits. \| Ricardo Larreina/Europa Press/Getty Images [Madrid](https://www.si.com/soccer/team/real-madrid) may be underdogs heading into this year’s iteration of their reoccurring battle with City, but only fools dismiss Los Blancos in the Champions League. Muscle memory often trumps form when it comes to the latter stages. However, adding a 16th European title to their cabinet appears an extremely tall order this year. Álvaro Arbeloa’s performers would have to overcome three European giants to simply reach the final, where they could well face Arsenal or Clásico rivals Barcelona. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Man City | | Quarterfinal | Atalanta, Bayern | | Semifinal | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray, Liverpool | | Final | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham, Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | *** ## 2\. Galatasaray Galatasaray need a miracle. \| Gerrit van Keulen/Soccrates/Getty Images Galatsaray would have much preferred Spurs to Liverpool for their last 16 clash, but the Turkish side can take solace from having already beaten Slot’s side in Istanbul this term. Victor Osimhen scored the only goal of a hard-fought league phase battle. Still, it will be a tricky tie, especially with the second leg at Anfield, and similarly stern tests lie beyond the last 16. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Liverpool | | Quarterfinal | PSG, Chelsea | | Semifinal | Real Madrid, Man City, Atalanta, Bayern | | Final | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham, Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | *** ## 1\. Atalanta Atalanta are in a perilous position already. \| PIERO CRUCIATTI/AFP/Getty Images Atalanta pulled off an almighty comeback against German opposition in the playoff round, conquering Borussia Dortmund 4–3 on aggregate, but their Champions League journey appears set to end at the last 16. Even if they’re able to pull off an all-time shock and beat Bayern, they will then be fearing clashes with other continental behemoths en route to the final. | **Round** | **Potential Opponents** | |---|---| | Last 16 | Bayern Munich | | Quarterfinal | Real Madrid or Man City | | Semifinal | PSG, Chelsea, Galatasaray or Liverpool | | Final | Newcastle, Barcelona, Atlético, Tottenham, Bodø/Glimt, Sporting, Leverkusen, Arsenal | *** ### READ THE LATEST CHAMPIONS LEAGUE NEWS, ANALYSIS AND INSIGHT FROM SI FC