The UEFA Champions League knockout stage play-offs are set to deliver thrilling encounters, with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) drawing AS Monaco in an all-French clash. The draw, which took place in Nyon on Friday, January 30, 2026, has set the stage for intriguing matchups across the board. These games will determine which teams will advance to the Round of 16. The first legs are scheduled for February 17 and 18, with the return legs on February 24 and 25.
PSG, the reigning European champion, has had a somewhat bumpy Champions League campaign thus far. After a lackluster 1-1 draw against Newcastle, they dropped out of the top eight, necessitating their participation in the play-offs. In Ligue 1 play, PSG has been dominant, sitting comfortably at the top of the table. However, their European form has been less convincing, making their upcoming match against Monaco a crucial test of their continental ambitions.
Monaco, on the other hand, secured a play-off spot after holding Juventus to a goalless draw. While PSG has been in strong form domestically, Monaco will be looking to capitalize on any vulnerabilities PSG may show. Monaco's Ligue 1 games this season have been high-scoring affairs, so their match against PSG promises excitement.
Another highlight of the play-off draw is the pairing of Benfica and Real Madrid. This match evokes memories of José Mourinho's past encounters managing Benfica against Real Madrid, adding a layer of intrigue to the fixture. Adding to the drama, Benfica recently stunned Real Madrid with a 4-2 victory in the final round of the league phase, forcing the Spanish giants into the play-offs. Real Madrid will be seeking revenge, while Benfica will aim to repeat their success. Real Madrid is hoping to advance to the Round of 16 to face either Sporting CP or Manchester City.
Other notable play-off ties include:
- FK Bodø/Glimt (NOR) vs Inter Milan (ITA)
- Qarabag FK (AZE) vs Newcastle United FC (ENG)
- Galatasaray AS (TUR) vs Juventus (ITA)
- Club Brugge KV (BEL) vs Atlético de Madrid (ESP)
- Borussia Dortmund (GER) vs Atalanta BC (ITA)
- Olympiacos FC (GRE) vs Bayer Leverkusen (GER)
The eight winners from these play-off ties will join Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Liverpool, Tottenham, Barcelona, Chelsea, Sporting, and Manchester City in the Round of 16. The draw for the Round of 16, quarter-finals, and semi-finals is scheduled for February 27. The final is set to take place on May 30, 2026, at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest.
The Champions League knockout phase play-offs promise high-stakes football and potentially historic clashes. For PSG, overcoming Monaco is the first step towards reclaiming their status as a dominant force in Europe.
