🔗 Share this article

What's Different?

Four years after the introduction of a preliminary round, the Women's Champions League is experiencing further evolution. The new format includes an 18-team league phase replacing the former sixteen-team group format. In this innovative setup, every squad will participate in half a dozen games against six varied adversaries with three home fixtures and three contests on foreign turf. Only the top four clubs will automatically qualify for the last eight, while positions five through twelve will compete in playoffs for the remaining four spots.

Wise Move?

Time will tell whether this change demonstrates merit. Arriving merely forty-eight months subsequent to the effective preliminary round implementation appears slightly premature, but opinions could change if this revised league format delivers entertainment. The inclusion of two additional teams is generally appreciated as expansion was necessary to support the significant development of women's football across Europe. This league phase also offers adaptability for additional growth. Modification typically creates initial discomfort, and we'll discover by season's end whether the adjustment phase and fan adaptation were justified.

The broadcasting agreement with the streaming platform constitutes an enhancement over former setups, providing wider availability and supplemented with terrestrial broadcast opportunities that are crucial for growth if the tournament aims to enhance its visibility.

Championship Contenders

The pursuit of Europe's elite championship has never been more open. Defending champions Arsenal are facing challenges after their strong start under manager Renée Slegers, having dropped points in latest league games. Notwithstanding their continental experience, their initial match against OL Lyonnes presents a significant early challenge.

Last season's runners-up Barcelona remain formidable candidates for the competition they've mastered, having claimed victory on three occasions in the past five years. Despite limited squad depth, they've commenced impressively in league play, though their European campaign will test their resilience given rotation limitations.

Teutonic clubs Wolfsburg and Bayern Munich are engaged in rivalry at the Bundesliga summit, both maintaining undefeated records. However, it's been ten years since a German club achieved European glory. Multiple title winners OL Lyonnes have commenced perfectly in domestic action and face a significant initial examination against Arsenal.

The London club might still be processing their semi-final defeat against Barcelona but remain determined to claim European glory. Their campaign opening has been promising, though league displays haven't been entirely convincing.

The Red Devils' Chances

The Manchester team have successfully navigated qualification rounds to enter the competition for the initial occasion. Notable stalemates against league rivals demonstrate their capabilities, with backline organization being crucial to their positive start. However, managing multiple competitions will challenge their depth, particularly with important players missing until the holiday period. Additional resources will be necessary for continued continental progress. Their initial fixture list presents a formidable obstacle with matches against several continental powerhouses.

Breakout Candidates

Chelsea forward Aggie Beever-Jones has been entrusted with leading the line despite multiple alternatives in the forward positions. A quartet of strikes in five outings justifies the team's trust in their homegrown talent. European minutes would be fully deserved and achievement appears probable.

Elsewhere, teenage sensation Lily Yohannes has joined OL Lyonnes from Ajax with great expectations. Having selected national team allegiance, the US youth has immediately showcased her talent with a first-match strike. Given opportunities in a skilled roster, she could create substantial influence.

The Gunners' Katie Reid has been preferred over veteran center-backs following their captain's absence. Her athletic attributes, game intelligence and positional understanding have garnered acclaim. While continental preparation might be debated, her league displays have earned consideration.

Final Destination

The ultimate match will occur in Oslo at Ullevaal Stadion, home to the Norwegian national team, scheduled for late May 2026. The 27,182-capacity venue prevailed over competing bids from German and Scottish arenas to secure hosting rights for European football's premier women's event.