The UEFA Women`s Champions League ushers in a new era with the completion of its 2025-26 league phase draw. This revamped format replaces the traditional group stage, promising increased unpredictability, drama, and high stakes in European football.
While the men`s UEFA Champions League is already in full swing with 36 teams, the women`s competition makes its debut with a league phase, featuring 18 participating teams for the first time in its history.
Fans can follow the UWCL season, with league phase matches available across CBS Sports platforms, following a broadcast partnership announcement in May. Paramount+ will stream all 75 matches annually, with select games also airing on CBS Sports Network and CBS Sports Golazo Network.
The journey to the final at Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo, Norway, promises an exhilarating competition. This article highlights key matchups and identifies teams featuring prominent American players during the league phase.
Arsenal`s Title Defense Begins
The reigning title-holders, Arsenal, enter the competition with a target on their backs, boasting a roster rich in depth and experience. Head coach Renee Slegers’ side faces a formidable schedule, hosting OL Lyonnes at home and traveling to face Bayern Munich. Their league phase opponents also include Real Madrid, Twente, Benfica, and OH Leuven.
U.S. Women`s National Team fullback Emily Fox is a pivotal star in Arsenal`s backline. A reliable starter, she delivers strong performances on both ends of the pitch and will be crucial for Arsenal`s quest to repeat as champions. An intriguing subplot involves Jenna Nighswonger, who hasn`t been part of USWNT camps since January and primarily plays a bench role for the Gunners.
These league phase clashes will rigorously test Arsenal`s squad depth and Slegers` adaptability to the new format. Beyond the American talents, observers should also keep a close eye on Spain`s Mariona Caldentey. A strong contender for the Ballon d`Or alongside her national teammate Aitana Bonmati, her performance, including 23 goals and 18 assists, makes a compelling case for the award if she can lead Arsenal to Champions League glory.
American Flair Meets Chelsea`s Ambition
Chelsea continues its pursuit of the elusive Champions League title that has eluded them despite significant domestic dominance. The squad enters the league phase determined to prove their mettle. Head coach Sonia Bompastor has effectively maintained Chelsea’s elite status in England since Emma Hayes` departure for the USWNT role. Their navigation through this new league phase format will be vital for potential success in the knockout rounds.
Last season`s semifinalists will face a challenging lineup including FC Barcelona, Wolfsburg, Roma, St Polten, Paris FC, and Twente. They are set to host formidable teams like Champions League powerhouse Barcelona, Roma, and Paris FC at home, while traveling to confront Wolfsburg, Twente, and St Polten.
U.S. national team forward Catarina Macario, who joined Chelsea in 2023, has been diligently working her way back into form after a lengthy ACL recovery. Naomi Girma, who commanded a record transfer fee in 2025, and newly acquired Alyssa Thompson are also poised to make a significant impact for the Blues on Europe’s grandest stage.
Lyonnes Welcomes the Yohannes Era
OL Lyonnes garnered significant attention this summer by signing teenage rising star Lily Yohannes from Ajax. The 18-year-old midfielder pledged allegiance to the USWNT after considering representing the Netherlands. She has since increased her presence within the U.S. national team setup and is highly regarded as a top prospect for the program.
Upon her arrival in France, Yohannes quickly made her mark, scoring a goal and earning player of the match honors in her debut against Marseille. She joins fellow USWNT midfielder Lindsey Heaps, who also started alongside Yohannes in the season opener, helping to forge a rising dynamic American core within one of Europe’s most iconic clubs.
The eight-time Champions League winners also secured 2024 Olympic gold medalist Korbin Shrader. They will host St Polten, Wolfsburg, and Atletico Madrid at home, while facing Juventus, Arsenal, and Manchester United as the visiting side.
Americans in Paris
U.S. Women`s National Team fullback Crystal Dunn joined Paris Saint-Germain during the winter, signing a contract through 2027. She has frequently featured in an attacking role for the Première Ligue side, contributing two goals and one assist across six matches last season.
Defender Eva Gaetino bolsters the backline as a center-back, demonstrating a fearless approach to the ball, often making crucial blocks and clearances. Gaetino earned her first national team debut in April 2024, splitting her time between the senior team and the U23 program`s camps.
For PSG to re-establish themselves as a prominent force in the Champions League, strong performances during the league phase will be essential. They are scheduled to host Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and OH Leuven, and will travel to play Manchester United, Wolfsburg, and Benfica.
What`s Next
With the league phase draw now finalized, the initial round of matches is scheduled for October. UEFA will confirm the full league phase schedules this Saturday, with the primary games set for October 7-8.
