Key Highlights
- The final Champions League week of 2025 is crucial for securing top-eight finishes.
- Bayern Munich and Manchester City are leading the race with high chances of automatic qualification.
- Inter Milan and Chelsea face key European fixtures against tougher opponents in their remaining games.
- Pafos, the Cypriot champions, have a surprising run in the league phase.
The Final Push for Champions League Top Eight: A Roundup of Key Matches
As we approach the final week of Champions League action in 2025, the race for automatic qualification and the playoffs is intensifying. With only three points separating second-placed Paris Saint-Germain from 14th-placed Galatasaray heading into matchday six, teams are scrambling to secure their top-eight spots.
Bayern Munich vs Sporting CP
In Tuesday’s evening clash at 5:45pm GMT (12:45pm ET), Bayern Munich will look to reclaim their unbeaten form against Sporting CP. Despite a strong campaign, the German giants have faced tough challenges this season, including a recent loss to Arsenal. Meanwhile, Sporting CP has shown resilience with victories over Kairat Almaty and Club Brugge but faces the challenge of maintaining focus after drawing 1-1 with Benfica.
Inter Milan vs Liverpool
The Tuesday night matchup between Inter Milan and Liverpool at 8pm GMT (3pm ET) is pivotal for both teams. Inter, currently in fourth place, will be eager to maintain their European momentum against a Liverpool side struggling defensively. A win could significantly boost Inter’s chances of securing an automatic qualification spot.
Atalanta vs Chelsea
In another key fixture, Atalanta and Chelsea face off at 8pm GMT (3pm ET). Atalanta have shown improved form with clean sheets in their last three games, while Chelsea continue to look inconsistent despite a strong opening against Barcelona. The match is crucial for both teams as they aim to secure top-eight finishes.
Real Madrid vs Manchester City
The highly anticipated match between Real Madrid and Manchester City at 8pm GMT (3pm ET) on Wednesday will be one of the highlights of the week. With just two points separating the sides, a victory could boost City’s chances of overtaking Madrid in the league standings.
Pafos vs Juventus
In the final fixture, Pafos and Juventus clash at 8pm GMT (3pm ET) on Wednesday. Both teams have surprising runs this season, with Pafos showing resilience despite their lowly standing. A victory for either team could significantly impact their playoff chances.
These key matches will determine the fate of many European clubs in the final week of the Champions League group stage.
With tight margins and high stakes, every goal could be crucial as teams fight to secure their top-eight spots and avoid an extra play-off round.
The Athletic’s projections, powered by Opta data, highlight the importance of these fixtures for key contenders like Bayern Munich, Manchester City, Inter Milan, and Chelsea. The coming week will undoubtedly see intense competition and unexpected results that could reshape the race for qualification in the Champions League.
