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Franzi | Games
Franzi | Games 
11 Feb 2026 | Sportsbetting
Champions League Matchday Predictions Play-offs 25/26
All predictions for the first legs of the 2025/26 Champions League play-offs. Current form, background insights and match-ups at a glance. Information on Europe’s elite competition.
approx. 3 min.
Champions League Matchday Predictions Play-offs 25/26
The league phase has concluded. Heavyweights such as Bayern Munich, Arsenal and Liverpool have secured direct qualification for the round of 16. Our Champions League matchday prediction now focuses primarily on the teams attempting to take the detour via the play-offs. Among them are Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan, who at times delivered strong performances but were unable to consistently translate their international experience into results. Clubs such as Ajax, Marseille and Napoli, meanwhile, have been completely eliminated.
In the upcoming first-leg play-off matches, form meets experience, euphoria meets control and courage meets efficiency. Underdogs such as Bodö/Glimt, Qarabag and Club Brugge are challenging inconsistent top sides like Juventus and Dortmund. In the first leg, the emphasis is therefore less on early decisions and more on composure, match momentum and creating a solid foundation for the return leg.
Merkur Quick Tips for the Champions League Play-offs
Galatasaray Istanbul vs Juventus Turin
Despite defeat at Manchester City, Galatasaray deservedly advanced to the play-offs. Under pressure, the team revealed certain weaknesses in build-up play and is now hoping to rely on home strength. Everything appears open against Juventus, as the Italians are on the up after a negative run, yet could only manage a draw against Monaco and suffered a 3–0 defeat to Atalanta in the Coppa Italia. A tight, tactical encounter with limited risk-taking is expected.
Tip: 2 + under 3.5 goals
Benfica Lisbon vs Real Madrid
Benfica’s 4–2 win against Real was an emotional tour de force featuring bold pressing and high efficiency. Following goalkeeper Trubin’s phenomenal headed goal, the Portuguese side advanced to the play-offs. Los Blancos, by contrast, lost their seemingly secure place among the top eight due to defensive disorganisation. Just one matchday later, Benfica must prove whether they can maintain the same high level of intensity against Real.
Tip: Both teams to score
AS Monaco vs Paris SG
The goalless draw against Juventus highlighted Monaco’s defensive stability but once again exposed offensive shortcomings. PSG, meanwhile, slipped into the play-offs alongside Newcastle after a rather disappointing 1–1 draw. Against the Monegasques, the technically superior defending champions aim to demonstrate efficiency and control the tempo, while Monaco will need to defend deep and look for counter-attacking opportunities.
Tip: 2 + under 3.5 goals
Borussia Dortmund vs Atalanta Bergamo
The most recent Champions League defeat against Inter once again underlined Dortmund’s lack of cutting edge. However, Atalanta have also struggled with finishing and slipped further down the table following a defeat to Saint-Gilloise. Their Coppa Italia victory over Juventus provided a slight boost. BVB must be prepared for an intense contest.
Tip: 1
Qarabag Agdam vs Newcastle United
Underdogs Qarabag historically reached the play-offs but were clearly outclassed in a 6–0 defeat at Liverpool. The Azerbaijani side now face another English team. Newcastle will look to capitalise on transitional moments and urgently require a win after defeats against Aston Villa, Liverpool, Manchester and Brentford. The team are favourites if they maintain patience and concentration.
Tip: 2 + under 3.5 goals
Bodö/Glimt vs Inter Milan
Bodö/Glimt fought their way forward step by step with unexpected victories against Manchester City and Atlético. Most recently, the Norwegians impressed with pace, bravery and efficiency. Nevertheless, Inter remain favourites in the play-offs and most recently secured a composed 2–0 win in Dortmund. The Milan side are now on a five-match winning streak. The first leg therefore sees experienced dynamism meet structure.
Tip: 2 + both teams to score
Olympiakos Piraeus vs Bayer Leverkusen
Olympiakos prevailed against Ajax through efficiency and demonstrated their strength in tight matches. Two Champions League matchdays earlier, the Greeks had already troubled Leverkusen and won 2–0. Now they face the Werkself once again. The German side are on the rise and dominated Villarreal with early pressing and control of the game. The decisive factor will be whether Olympiakos can disrupt the rhythm and maintain defensive stability.
Tip: Draw
Club Brugge vs Atletico Madrid
The emphatic victory over Marseille gave Brugge momentum but also revealed how dependent the team are on early goals. Opponents Atlético have amends to make following the unexpected defeat to Bodö/Glimt. In the first leg, Brugge are likely to press boldly, while the visitors will rely on defensive organisation and control of the game. A controlled match with limited risks appears likely.
Tip: 2
