It’s officially a new era in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. The league phase draw is complete, setting the stage for a thrilling 2025-26 season. The new format substitutes the traditional group stage for a league phase that promises uncertainty and high stakes.
The men’s UEFA Champions League is ongoing, with 36 teams competing, while this marks the first league phase for the women’s tournament with 18 teams involved.
CBS Sports is the official host of the UWCL thanks to a new broadcast partnership through 2030. Fans can watch the league matches across CBS Sports, and Paramount+ will stream CBS’s coverage of all 75 matches per season. Select matches will also air on CBS Sports Network and CBS Sports Golazo Network.
It’s a thrilling path to the final at Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo, Norway. Arsenal, led by reigning champions’ head coach Renee Slegers, aims to defend their title against formidable teams. They will host OL Lyonnes at home and take on Bayern Munich away, along with matches against Real Madrid, Twente, Benfica, and OH Leuven.
U.S. women’s national team fullback Emily Fox, a key player for Arsenal, is expected to shine. Meanwhile, Jenna Nighswonger, who hasn’t participated in USWNT camps since January, faces a more limited role as the matchups will test Arsenal’s roster depth.
Keep an eye on Spain’s Mariona Caldentey as she vies for the Ballon d’Or, competing against teammate Aitana Bonmati after successful seasons.
Chelsea is driven to capture a Champions League title and will make this journey after a strong domestic performance. Head coach Sonia Bompastor leads the team against Barcelona, Wolfsburg, Roma, St Polten, Paris FC, and Twente.
Catarina Macario and newly acquired Naomi Girma, who made a record transfer fee in 2025, will play significant parts in Chelsea’s campaign to make waves on a grand stage.
OL Lyonnes recently signed Lily Yohannes, a rising star, for a permanent position while fostering an American midfielder core along with Lindsey Heaps. They will look to showcase their depth and skill against seasoned European teams.
Fans will also watch for Crystal Dunn of Paris Saint-Germain in her new role, having signed with the club until 2027, as they gear up against competition like Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.
