Several clubs have already secured progression in the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League following the conclusion of Matchday 7 fixtures played across Europe on Wednesday.
With just one round of group matches remaining, qualification scenarios are beginning to take shape, as some teams have sealed direct passage into the Round of 16, while others are guaranteed a place in the knockout phase play-offs.
Chelsea, Barcelona, Newcastle United and Juventus are the latest sides to book their spots in the next phase of the competition, following important results that ensured they can no longer finish outside the qualification positions in their respective groups.
German giants Bayern Munich have also confirmed direct qualification for the Round of 16, joining Arsenal, who had already wrapped up their place among the top eight teams earlier in the competition. Both clubs will avoid the knockout phase play-offs and advance straight to the last-16 stage.
Under the Champions League format, the top eight teams in the overall standings qualify automatically for the Round of 16. Clubs that finish between ninth and 24th place will compete in the knockout phase play-offs, with winners from those ties advancing to complete the Round of 16 lineup.
So far, only two teams have mathematically secured direct qualification for the Round of 16. However, several others have at least guaranteed themselves a place in either the Round of 16 or the knockout phase play-offs, ensuring their European campaigns will continue beyond the group stage.
Teams confirmed for the Round of 16:
Arsenal, Bayern Munich
Teams confirmed for the Round of 16 or knockout phase play-offs:
Chelsea, Barcelona, Inter Milan, Juventus, Liverpool, Manchester City, Newcastle United, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Sporting CP, Tottenham Hotspur, Atalanta and Atletico Madrid
With the final round of group fixtures still to be played, attention will now turn to which teams can secure direct qualification and which sides will be forced into the knockout phase play-offs. Several qualification battles remain open, promising high drama as Europe’s elite clubs push for favorable positions ahead of the business end of the competition.
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