Champions League Quarter-Final Draw Delivers Blockbuster Ties as Real Madrid Face Arsenal and PSG Meet Liverpool

February 2, 2026

The 2025/26 UEFA Champions League quarter-final draw, conducted in Nyon on Friday, produced a series of high-stakes matchups that promise drama and intensity over the coming weeks. Real Madrid will take on Arsenal, while Paris Saint-Germain draw Liverpool in the standout ties, setting the stage for potential classic encounters as Europe's elite clubs battle for a place in the semi-finals.

The draw, which followed the completion of a thrilling round of 16, also paired Bayern Munich against Manchester City and Barcelona with Inter Milan, ensuring no easy paths forward for any of the remaining eight teams.

Quarter-Final Pairings

• Real Madrid vs Arsenal The defending champions Real Madrid face a formidable test against Arsenal, who advanced impressively past their round-of-16 opponents. Carlo Ancelotti's side will look to leverage their home advantage at the Bernabéu in the second leg, while Mikel Arteta's young and dynamic Arsenal squad arrives with confidence after a strong domestic and European campaign.
• Paris Saint-Germain vs Liverpool Two attacking powerhouses collide as PSG host Liverpool in the first leg. Luis Enrique's Paris side, led by their potent forward line, will meet Arne Slot's high-pressing Liverpool team that has shown resilience and flair throughout the competition. The tie promises goals and tactical intrigue.
• Bayern Munich vs Manchester City A rematch of recent heavyweight clashes sees Bayern Munich take on Pep Guardiola's Manchester City. The Bavarians, under new management this season, aim to exploit home advantage in Munich, while City seek to extend their dominance in European competition.
• Barcelona vs Inter Milan Barcelona renew acquaintances with Inter Milan in a tie rich in tactical contrast. Hansi Flick's revitalised Barça side will face Simone Inzaghi's disciplined and counter-attacking Inter, who have proven difficult to break down in recent Champions League campaigns.

Key Dates and Format Reminder

First legs are scheduled for April 8 and 9, with second legs following on April 15 and 16. As in previous rounds, away goals no longer apply, meaning extra time and penalties will decide any level aggregate scorelines.

The semi-final draw will take place immediately after the quarter-finals conclude, with the final set for May 30, 2026, at the Allianz Arena in Munich.

Early Reactions and Expectations

Managers and players expressed excitement and respect following the draw. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta called the tie against Real Madrid "the ultimate challenge" and an opportunity to measure his team against the competition's benchmark. Liverpool manager Arne Slot described the PSG matchup as "two teams who love to attack" and predicted an open, entertaining contest.

With no clear favourites emerging from the pairings, the quarter-finals appear wide open. Each tie features clubs with recent European pedigree, current form, and star power capable of producing unforgettable moments.

The 2025/26 Champions League knockout stages continue to deliver the drama and quality that define Europe's premier club competition. As the continent's top teams prepare for April showdowns, anticipation builds for what could become one of the most competitive quarter-final rounds in recent memory.