Nicola Zalewski Faces Tough Champions League Challenge: Here’s the Bracket

Bassyonni

Published: February 26, 2026 2:02 AM ET

Nicola Zalewski Faces Tough Champions League Challenge: Here’s the Bracket

This week, the UEFA Champions League excitement intensified as several teams secured their spots in the Round of 16. Notably, Atletico Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, Bodo/Glimt, and Newcastle United joined the elite group on Tuesday. The following day saw Atalanta, Galatasaray, Paris Saint-Germain, and Real Madrid also advance.

Champions League Round of 16: Key Matchups and Teams

As the tournament progresses, teams will prepare for the next round’s draw. Nicola Zalewski, a standout player for Atalanta, faces a significant challenge ahead. His team recently triumphed over Borussia Dortmund, securing a 4:1 victory in the second leg and winning 4:3 on aggregate.

Potential Opponents for Atalanta

In the upcoming round, Atalanta will face either Arsenal or Bayern Munich. This matchup promises to be a test of skill for Zalewski and his teammates.

Bodo/Glimt’s Remarkable Journey

Bodo/Glimt, who delivered one of the tournament’s biggest surprises, may once again face Manchester City. The Norwegian side previously defeated the Premier League stalwarts 3:1 in a recent league encounter. Alternatively, they could match up against Sporting CP, which presents a seemingly easier challenge.

Other Notable Teams and Matches

Real Madrid is in a similar position as Bodo/Glimt regarding potential opponents.
Barcelona, led by Joshua Lewandowski and Wojciech Szczęsny, secured direct entry to the Round of 16 and will meet either Paris Saint-Germain or Newcastle United.
Atletico Madrid is set to compete against either Tottenham Hotspur or Liverpool.

Upcoming Draw and Final Details

The draw for the Round of 16 will take place on February 27 at UEFA’s headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland. Fans eagerly await this event to see the matchups that will shape the Champions League’s next stages.

The final of the Champions League is scheduled for May 30, 2026, at Puskas Arena in Budapest, Hungary. As the tournament progresses, fans will remain invested in each team’s journey towards glory.