Champions League 2025: Latest News, Fixtures & Watch Guide

Fans are buzzing as the 2025 UEFA Champions League rolls into its decisive phases. Whether you’re a die‑hard supporter or just tuning in for the excitement, you’ll want to know which matches matter most, how to catch them live, and which players could turn the tide.

What’s Happening Now?

The group stage wrapped up last week, leaving three heavy‑weights—Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich—alongside a surprise qualifier, Paris Saint‑Germain. City topped their group with a perfect record, while Real Madrid survived a late comeback against AC Milan. Bayern’s disciplined defense gave them a narrow edge, and PSG clinched the final spot after a dramatic 2‑1 win over Liverpool.

Now the knockout round‑of‑16 is set. The draw paired Manchester City with Atletico Madrid, Real Madrid against Inter Milan, Bayern Munich versus Porto, and PSG facing Chelsea. All ties are two‑legged, so expect tactical battles and a few upset chances.

How to Watch Every Match

If you’re in the U.S., CBS Sports will broadcast the live games on its main channel and the streaming service Paramount+. In Europe, the matches air on BT Sport (UK), Canal+ (France), and Sky Sport (Germany). For mobile viewers, the official UEFA app offers a live‑stream option when you log in with a valid TV provider credential.

Want a free alternative? Some local broadcasters provide a delayed replay on their websites after the match ends. Just check the schedule on the UEFA site for the exact start times in your time zone.

Don’t forget the audio‑only option for those long commutes. The BBC Radio 5 Live and SiriusXM’s soccer channels run live commentary for most fixtures, letting you stay in the game without a screen.

Key Players to Keep an Eye On

Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne is still the creative engine, threading passes that split defenses. Real Madrid’s newcomer, Brazilian striker Vinícius Júnior, has already netted three goals and looks ready for a breakout season. Bayern’s defensive stalwart, Dayot Upamecano, will be vital in shutting down Atletico’s counter‑attack. And PSG’s young striker, Gonçalo Ramos, could surprise everyone with his poaching instincts against Chelsea.

Watch for midfield battles, especially when teams switch from possession play to quick transitions. Those moments often decide who grabs the advantage in a two‑leg tie.

Tips for a Better Viewing Experience

1. Set a reminder on your phone for kickoff times—many games start at 20:00 GMT, but some midweek fixtures are earlier.

2. Test your internet speed before a live stream. A stable 5 Mbps connection usually prevents buffering during high‑action periods.

3. Keep a snack and a drink handy. The drama peaks in the last 15 minutes, and you’ll want to stay refreshed.

4. Join a fan forum or a Discord server. Talking about tactics in real time adds a layer of excitement you won’t get watching alone.

5. If you’re new to the format, remember the away‑goals rule still applies for the round‑of‑16 and quarter‑finals, so a 1‑0 win at home can be overturned by a 2‑1 away loss.

With the stakes rising, the 2025 Champions League promises unforgettable moments. Keep this guide handy, set your watchlist, and enjoy the showdown of Europe’s best clubs.