UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Third Round: Complete Match Schedule and Format Details
The 2025/26 UEFA Champions League is entering its third round, scheduled for October 21 and 22. This season features an innovative format, replacing the traditional group stage. A total of 36 clubs will compete in a series of matches. Each team will face eight opponents—four at home and four away. The top 24 teams based on points will advance to the playoffs.
Third Round Match Schedule
Here are the matches for the third round:
October 21 Matches
- Kairat (Kazakhstan) vs. Pafos (Cyprus)
- Barcelona (Spain) vs. Olympiakos (Greece)
- Newcastle United (England) vs. Benfica (Portugal)
- Royale Union Saint-Gilloise (Belgium) vs. Inter (Italy)
- Copenhagen (Denmark) vs. Borussia Dortmund (Germany)
- PSV (Netherlands) vs. Napoli (Italy)
- Villarreal (Spain) vs. Manchester City (England)
- Bayern Munich (Germany) vs. Paris Saint-Germain (France)
- Arsenal (England) vs. Atlético Madrid (Spain)
October 22 Matches
- Athletic Bilbao (Spain) vs. Qarabag FK (Azerbaijan)
- Galatasaray (Turkey) vs. Bodø/Glimt (Norway)
- Bayern Munich (Germany) vs. Club Brugge (Belgium)
- Real Madrid (Spain) vs. Juventus (Italy)
- Monaco (France) vs. Tottenham Hotspur (England)
- Sporting CP (Portugal) vs. Marseille (France)
- Eintracht Frankfurt (Germany) vs. Liverpool (England)
- Atalanta (Italy) vs. Slavia Prague (Czech Republic)
- Chelsea (England) vs. Ajax (Netherlands)
Competition Dynamics
This year’s knockout phase is proving to be highly competitive. Every match holds significance, as teams strive to secure a playoff position. Notably, Dynamo Kyiv did not qualify for this main round and will instead participate in the UEFA Europa Conference League.
As the matches draw near, supporters are encouraged to engage with the tournament, rallying behind their favorite teams during this thrilling UEFA Champions League season.
