Champions League Showdown: Expert Picks for Tuesday's Epic Clashes

Following months of eager expectation, the Champions League returns—featuring the second version of the expanded league format that took the place of the traditional group stage structure.

UEFA was swift to declare their format modification a triumph following its completion earlier this year, though some will persist in questioning the overwhelming pressures being placed on players.

Nonetheless, the 36 competing clubs face another grueling eight-match campaign that will only eliminate one-third of the field, with the knockout playoff round providing redemption for teams that may struggle during the opening phase, just as eventual winners Paris Saint-Germain managed last season.

Matchday 1 follows a slightly different schedule than usual, featuring 18 matches spread across three days instead of the typical two. This allows us to settle in for the entire midweek period and witness the world's premier club tournament unfold its characteristic drama.

Below are Sports Illustrated's forecasts for the inaugural matchday—Tuesday's fixtures, in particular—of the league phase.

Athletic Club vs. Arsenal

Kickoff time: 5.45 p.m. BST / 12.45 p.m / 9.45 a.m.

Premier League runners-up Arsenal are among the first teams in action on Tuesday, beginning their journey in Bilbao against Athletic Club. Having reached the quarterfinals and semifinals in consecutive seasons, the Gunners are targeting at least one step further in 2025–26.

They have commenced the new season in excellent form, bolstered by fresh acquisitions Viktor Gyökeres, Eberechi Eze and Martín Zubimendi among others, but encounter a challenging assignment against an Athletic squad featuring long-term target Nico Williams.

Still, Mikel Arteta will feel optimistic about securing a confidence-building victory.

Prediction: Athletic Club 1–3 Arsenal

PSV Eindhoven vs. Union Saint-Gilloise

Arsenal achieved a historic triumph over PSV Eindhoven during their semifinal run earlier this year, but the Dutch club enters the new campaign having defended their Eredivisie title. They commence with a potential upset at home against Belgian Pro League frontrunners Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, who are making their Champions League debut.

PSV can be spectacular at their home venue but frequently disappoint in European contests—that might be exactly what USG requires to claim a precious away point.

Prediction: PSV Eindhoven 1–1 Union Saint-Gilloise

Benfica vs. Qarabag

Benfica are former champions twice over, but their most recent success came in 1962, and they haven't managed to rival the continent's elite powers in modern times. Nevertheless, many will anticipate them performing well at home against Qarabağ on Tuesday evening.

Don't anticipate an easy victory, however, as Qarabağ's familiarity with top-level competition helps them become a more resilient opponent each passing year.

Prediction: Benfica 1–0 Qarabağ

Juventus vs. Borussia Dortmund

Juventus haven't been a significant force in this tournament recently, and their league phase commences by hosting Borussia Dortmund in Turin.

The German side typically exceeds expectations in Europe, demonstrated by their two final appearances since 2012. There's considerable work needed to restore Dortmund to the peaks of Jurgen Klopp's leadership era, but the same applies to Juve—they are no longer Italy's football powerhouse and instead find themselves battling for top-four placement.

With talented players on display for both teams, anticipate goals.

Prediction: Juventus 2–1 Borussia Dortmund

Real Madrid vs. Marseille

Real Madrid suffered disappointment against Arsenal last season but appear revitalized under Xabi Alonso's guidance, and Kylian Mbappé encounters familiar French rivals in Marseille on opening day.

The French star could feature alongside Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo in a formidable attacking trio, but defensive injuries mean Alonso's team won't be complacent at the Bernabeu.

Prediction: Real Madrid 2–0 Marseille

Tottenham Hotspur vs. Villarreal

Thomas Frank has experienced an encouraging beginning to his Tottenham Hotspur leadership, and he's gearing up for his inaugural Champions League match as a manager. An exciting Villarreal team with substantial Premier League knowledge are Spurs' opening league phase adversaries.

The Lilywhites' commanding 3–0 victory over West Ham United last weekend positions them ideally for a European home fixture—the previous occasion Spurs participated at continental level was their 1–0 triumph over Manchester United in the Europa League final.

Villarreal feature former Arsenal winger Nicolas Pépé in their squad, and he's delivered an outstanding start to the campaign—earning La Liga's Player of the Month recognition for August. Watch him closely.

Prediction: Tottenham 2-1 Villarreal

Matchday 9/16 Predictions