Champions League Predictions: Spotlight on Matchday 1
The Champions League predictions for Matchday 1 of the 2025–26 season include several high-stakes matches. As the league reaches a crucial phase, teams must solidify their standings to advance in the tournament. Here’s a look at the upcoming fixtures and predictions for this pivotal round.
Key Match Predictions for Matchday 1
Galatasaray vs. Atlético Madrid
Kick-off: 5:45 p.m. GMT / 12:45 p.m. ET / 9:45 a.m. PT
Galatasaray, battling to retain their Süper Lig title, faces Atlético Madrid in Istanbul. They hope for a boost with Victor Osimhen returning from the Africa Cup of Nations. The Turkish champions are currently focused on progressing in Europe. Prediction: Galatasaray 1 – 0 Atlético Madrid.
Qarabağ vs. Eintracht Frankfurt
Kick-off: 5:45 p.m. GMT / 12:45 p.m. ET / 9:45 a.m. PT
Eintracht Frankfurt, now under interim management, travels to Azerbaijan after parting ways with Dino Toppmöller. Qarabağ seeks redemption after recent struggles. Prediction: Qarabağ 1 – 2 Eintracht Frankfurt.
Atalanta vs. Athletic Club
Kick-off: 8:00 p.m. GMT / 3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT
Atalanta is gaining momentum under coach Rafaelle Palladino and aims for another victory after a strong showing against Chelsea. Athletic Club has struggled this season. Prediction: Atalanta 2 – 0 Athletic Club.
Bayern Munich vs. Union Saint-Gilloise
Kick-off: 8:00 p.m. GMT / 3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT
Bayern Munich, high-performing in the Champions League, is set to dominate their opponents in this match. Union Saint-Gilloise will face a tough test. Prediction: Bayern Munich 4 – 1 Union Saint-Gilloise.
Chelsea vs. Pafos
Kick-off: 8:00 p.m. GMT / 3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT
Chelsea’s new manager Liam Rosenior prepares for his Champions League debut against Pafos FC, who are experiencing managerial changes. Prediction: Chelsea 2 – 0 Pafos.
Juventus vs. Benfica
Kick-off: 8:00 p.m. GMT / 3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT
Juventus, under Luciano Spalletti, seeks to extend their Champions League campaign against Benfica, who are striving to improve their standings. Prediction: Juventus 3 – 0 Benfica.
Marseille vs. Liverpool
Kick-off: 8:00 p.m. GMT / 3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT
Marseille hosts Liverpool, aiming to replicate past successes against the English side. Both teams have recent strong performances but face significant pressure. Prediction: Marseille 2 – 1 Liverpool.
Newcastle United vs. PSV Eindhoven
Kick-off: 8:00 p.m. GMT / 3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT
Newcastle seeks to solidify their position against a competitive PSV Eindhoven side, well-known for their ability to spring surprises. Prediction: Newcastle 2 – 1 PSV Eindhoven.
Slavia Prague vs. Barcelona
Kick-off: 8:00 p.m. GMT / 3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT
Barcelona, hoping to bounce back from a recent loss, faces a Slavia Prague team struggling for wins. Prediction: Slavia Prague 0 – 3 Barcelona.
Matchday 1 Fixtures Overview
| Kick-Off Time (GMT) | Fixture | Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| 5:45 p.m. | Galatasaray vs. Atlético Madrid | 1 – 0 |
| 5:45 p.m. | Qarabağ vs. Eintracht Frankfurt | 1 – 2 |
| 8:00 p.m. | Atalanta vs. Athletic Club | 2 – 0 |
| 8:00 p.m. | Bayern Munich vs. Union Saint-Gilloise | 4 – 1 |
| 8:00 p.m. | Chelsea vs. Pafos | 2 – 0 |
| 8:00 p.m. | Juventus vs. Benfica | 3 – 0 |
| 8:00 p.m. | Marseille vs. Liverpool | 2 – 1 |
| 8:00 p.m. | Newcastle United vs. PSV Eindhoven | 2 – 1 |
| 8:00 p.m. | Slavia Prague vs. Barcelona | 0 – 3 |
As these matches unfold, the stakes are considerably high, and teams will look to leverage their strengths. El-Balad remains your source for the latest Champions League insights and predictions.
