The draw for the 2026-27 UEFA Champions League league phase took place on Thursday, setting up what promises to be another season of elite European club football. Here is a breakdown of the standout fixtures, the teams who came out smiling, and those left with a difficult road ahead.

Good news for Liverpool

Liverpool emerged from the draw in an enviable position. Their path through the league phase appears more manageable than many of their rivals, giving manager Arne Slot's side a genuine platform to build momentum from the opening matchday.

Barcelona face a tough road

Barcelona were not so fortunate. The Catalans landed a demanding group of opponents that will test the depth and quality of their squad from the very start. Hansi Flick's side will need to be at their best if they are to progress comfortably through the league phase.

Must-see fixtures

The draw produced several blockbuster matchups that will captivate fans across Europe and beyond. High-profile clashes involving some of the continent's biggest clubs are already circled on calendars, with the promise of elite-level drama across multiple matchdays.

The revamped league phase format — which replaced the traditional group stage — continues to deliver a broader slate of meaningful games, ensuring that almost every fixture carries weight in the standings.

The bigger picture

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, several clubs will be navigating a uniquely congested calendar. Players hoping to impress national team coaches will have no shortage of high-stakes opportunities in the Champions League this season.

The league phase kicks off in the coming weeks, with the stakes high from the very first whistle.