The UEFA Champions League playoffs continue today, 18th February 2026, with key fixtures across Europe as clubs fight for a place in the next round.
Qarabağ FK will host Newcastle United F.C. in what promises to be a tricky encounter. Qarabag showed in the group stage that they can surprise big teams, notably playing out a shocking 2:2 draw against Chelsea. Newcastle will need to be cautious and avoid underestimating the home side.
In Norway, FK Bodø/Glimt take on Inter Milan. Softfootball gathered, Bodø/Glimt are known for producing surprises, including a stunning 3:1 win over Manchester City earlier in the competition. However, Inter are enjoying a strong domestic campaign, currently sitting top of Serie A with 61 points. The Italian side will enter as favourites but must remain focused.
Club Brugge KV face Atlético de Madrid in another key clash as Atletico have been inconsistent in recent weeks. They defeated FC Barcelona 4:0 in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final but followed that with a heavy 3:0 defeat to Rayo Vallecano. Coach Diego Simeone may be forced to rely on key players, including Ademola Lookman, to stabilise the team and regain confidence in Europe.
Meanwhile, Olympiacos F.C. host Bayer 04 Leverkusen. Leverkusen have not been as dominant as in previous seasons and currently sit sixth in the Bundesliga, 18 points behind leaders FC Bayern Munich. Olympiacos, owned by Evangelos Marinakis, will see this as a balanced contest and an opportunity to assert themselves at home.
Looking back at yesterday’s playoff encounters, Galatasaray S.K. demolished Juventus F.C. 5:2, Paris Saint-Germain F.C. edged AS Monaco FC 3:2, Real Madrid CF defeated SL Benfica 1:0 in a controversial clash, and Borussia Dortmund continued their unbeaten run with a 2:0 win over Atalanta BC.
With surprises already unfolding, tonight’s fixtures promise more drama as Europe’s elite battle to stay alive in the competition.
