Full Breakdown
UEFA Women's Champions League Knockout Phase Playoffs Begin
2/12/2026, 2:23:43 AM
Overview of the Knockout Phase
The UEFA Women’s Champions League (UWCL) has entered its knockout phase, featuring a series of playoff matches that will determine which teams advance to the quarterfinals. This season's playoffs include notable matchups such as Arsenal facing Belgium's OH Leuven, Manchester United against Atletico Madrid, Wolfsburg taking on Juventus, and Real Madrid competing with Paris FC. The matches are set to take place across various stadiums in England, France, Germany, Spain, Belgium, and Italy, with coverage available on CBS Sports Network and Paramount+.
Arsenal's Title Defense and OH Leuven's Cinderella Story
Arsenal, the reigning champions, are looking to regain their form after a challenging start to the season. Currently sitting outside the top three in the Women's Super League, Arsenal has shown signs of improvement, with only one loss in their last 14 matches, including a victory in the inaugural FIFA Women's Champions Cup. Their opponent, OH Leuven, is making history as they compete in the Champions League for the first time. The Belgian side has impressed by remaining unbeaten against several established teams, including Paris FC and Twente, although they suffered defeats to Barcelona and Arsenal during the league phase, indicating a potential gap in experience against top-tier teams.
Manchester United's Progress and Challenges
Manchester United, founded in 2018, has steadily risen in the Women's Super League, currently positioned second, eight points behind leaders Manchester City. Their playoff match against Atletico Madrid will be a significant test of their capabilities, especially considering United's mixed performance in the league phase, where they qualified for the knockouts with a negative goal differential. United's Fridolina Rolfo has emerged as a key player, contributing three goals in the Champions League. In contrast, Atletico Madrid boasts experience in UEFA competitions, having won four of their last five two-legged ties.
Viewing Options for Fans
Fans can watch the UWCL knockout phase matches live on CBS Sports Network and stream them on Paramount+. The first match of the playoffs features Arsenal against OH Leuven, kicking off at 12:45 p.m. ET on February 11. Various streaming services, including DirecTV, Fubo, and Hulu + Live TV, also offer access to the matches, with some providing free trial options for new subscribers.
Implications for the Teams
The outcomes of these matches will not only determine which teams progress to the quarterfinals but also impact their standings in their respective leagues. Arsenal's performance is crucial for their hopes of qualifying for next season's Champions League, while Manchester United aims to solidify their status as a competitive force in European football.
Verbatim Quotes
- “They may have officially corrected course, though – they have just one loss in their last 14, a stretch that includes lifting the inaugural FIFA Women's Champions Cup.” — CBS Sports
- “They have an intriguing obstacle in front of them in OH Leuven, the Belgian side that have become everyone's favorite underdog and reached the knockouts in their first-ever Champions League season.” — CBS Sports
The UWCL knockout phase promises to deliver exciting matches as teams vie for the prestigious title, showcasing both established powerhouses and emerging contenders.
