The anticipation is building as the Champions League play-off round draw approaches, a pivotal moment in European football's premier club competition. This event marks the next stage for teams vying to progress towards the coveted knockout phases.
Essential Details for the Champions League Play-Off Draw
Football fans across the UK and beyond are eagerly awaiting the draw, which is scheduled to take place this Friday, January 30, 2026. The ceremony will commence at 12am CET, translating to 11am GMT for viewers in the United Kingdom. As per tradition, it will be held at the House of European Football in Nyon, Switzerland, the esteemed headquarters of UEFA.
How to Watch the Draw Live
For those looking to tune in, there are multiple convenient options to catch the action as it unfolds. The draw will be streamed live for free on the official UEFA.com website, ensuring easy access for all supporters. Additionally, viewers can watch through the UEFA Champions League app on their mobile devices.
Alternative viewing methods include major sports broadcasters, such as TNT Sports in the UK, which typically broadcast the draw live on their linear television channels and digital platforms. This provides flexibility for fans to follow the proceedings from home or on the go.
Teams and Format Involved
The play-off round features 16 teams that finished between ninth and 24th place in the single league table of the Champions League. Notably, the top eight teams bypass this stage entirely, advancing directly to the Round of 16.
In terms of seeding, teams ranked from ninth to 16th will be seeded, granting them the advantage of playing the second leg of their play-off tie at home. This setup adds a strategic layer to the draw, influencing potential matchups and travel schedules.
Match Dates Following the Draw
Once the pairings are determined, the first legs of the play-off ties are scheduled for February 17 and 18, 2026. The return legs will then take place on February 24 and 25, setting the stage for intense clashes as teams compete for a spot in the next round.
This draw is a crucial step in the Champions League journey, with outcomes that could shape the fortunes of clubs like Liverpool and Arsenal, among others, as they aim for success in Europe's elite tournament.
