The UEFA Champions League returns with six thrilling fixtures as Europe’s elite begin their journey in the new league phase format. From heavyweight clashes to debut appearances, today’s matches promise intensity, drama, and goals.

Early Kick-offs (12:45 PM ET / 6:45 PM CET)

Athletic Club vs Arsenal

Venue: San Mamés, Bilbao

Preview:
Arsenal travels to the fiery atmosphere of San Mamés to face Athletic Club in their Champions League opener. The Gunners will aim to make a strong start in Europe after a solid domestic run, while Athletic return to the competition eager to prove themselves. Known for their relentless pressing and physical style, the Basque side could make life difficult for Arsenal’s ball-playing midfield.

Prediction: Athletic Club 1-2 Arsenal
Arsenal’s quality and attacking depth should see them edge a hard-fought encounter despite the intensity of the home crowd.

PSV Eindhoven vs Union Saint-Gilloise

Venue: Philips Stadion, Eindhoven

Preview:
PSV begin their campaign at home against Belgian underdogs Union Saint-Gilloise. The Dutch side’s attacking firepower and Champions League pedigree will test Union SG, who continue their remarkable European journey. Both sides like to play on the front foot, setting the stage for an open and entertaining contest.

Prediction: PSV Eindhoven 2-1 Union Saint-Gilloise
PSV’s European experience and home advantage should give them the edge, though Union SG are capable of pushing them close.

Main Kick-offs (3:00 PM ET / 9:00 PM CET)

Juventus vs Borussia Dortmund

Venue: Allianz Stadium, Turin

Preview:
A blockbuster tie headlines today’s action as Juventus host Borussia Dortmund. Juve come into the clash on the back of strong domestic form, while Dortmund rely on their youthful, attacking firepower. Expect a tactical duel: Juventus’ organised defence versus Dortmund’s relentless forward play.

Prediction: Juventus 1-1 Borussia Dortmund
A tightly contested affair likely ends in a draw, with both sides showing flashes of quality without fully dominating.

Real Madrid vs Marseille

Venue: Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid

Preview:
Defending champions Real Madrid begin their title defence against Ligue 1 side Marseille. Madrid’s mix of experience and emerging stars makes them heavy favourites, though Marseille’s counterattacking style could pose problems if given space.

Prediction: Real Madrid 3-1 Marseille
Madrid’s firepower and home advantage should secure a comfortable win.

Benfica vs Qarabağ

Venue: Estádio da Luz, Lisbon

Preview:
Portuguese giants Benfica welcome Qarabağ of Azerbaijan. Benfica are expected to dominate possession and chances, boasting an attack that can overwhelm the visitors. Qarabağ, however, will aim to frustrate and hit on the break.

Prediction: Benfica 3-0 Qarabağ
A straightforward win for Benfica, who should make their quality count.

Tottenham Hotspur vs Villarreal

Venue: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London

Preview:
Two familiar names in European football face off in London. Tottenham, backed by their passionate home support, aim to kick off their campaign strongly. Villarreal, known for their tactical discipline in Europe, will look to frustrate Spurs and capitalise on any defensive lapses.

Prediction: Tottenham 2-1 Villarreal
Spurs’ attacking edge and home advantage could be just enough to secure three points.