Champions League Matchday 7: The Race for the Top 8 Heats Up!
European football enters its most dramatic phase this week as we kick off the penultimate round of the UEFA Champions League league stage. With the “Swiss-style” format reaching its climax, the battle for a direct ticket to the Round of 16 is on a knife-edge.
Here is your comprehensive preview for the high-stakes matchups on Tuesday, January 20, and Wednesday, January 21, 2026.
Tuesday’s Blockbusters: Heavyweights Collide
Inter Milan vs. Arsenal | San Siro, 21:00 CET
The headline act of the week sees Arsenal travel to the iconic San Siro. Mikel Arteta’s Gunners are the only side in the competition with a perfect record (6 wins from 6). A win tonight would virtually guarantee them the #1 seed heading into the knockouts. However, Inter Milan sits in 6th place and is desperate for points to fend off a surging Atletico Madrid.
- Player to Watch: Bukayo Saka, who has been the creative engine for the Londoners this season.
Tottenham vs. Borussia Dortmund | Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, 21:00 CET
A true “six-pointer” for automatic qualification. Tottenham (11th) and Borussia Dortmund (10th) are separated by goal difference only. Both teams need a victory to break into the top 8 and avoid the grueling playoff round in February.
Wednesday’s Drama: High Pressure in France & Italy
Marseille vs. Liverpool | Orange Vélodrome, 21:00 CET
Liverpool finds themselves in a precarious position, currently sitting in 9th place. As the first team currently in the playoff spots, the Reds know a win in the hostile atmosphere of Marseille is non-negotiable. Marseille, currently 16th, is fighting to secure their own playoff spot, making this one of the most volatile games of the week.
Juventus vs. Benfica | Allianz Stadium, 21:00 CET
A classic European rivalry with massive implications. Juventus has struggled for consistency, sitting 17th. They host a Benfica side that has found a second wind recently. For both clubs, a loss could mean dropping out of the seeded playoff spots.
The “Top 8” Race: Current Standings
As of January 20, 2026 (Before Kick-off)
🔍 Other Matches Not to Miss
- Slavia Prague vs. Barcelona : The Catalans (15th) need a convincing win to climb into a seeded position.
- Newcastle United vs. PSV: The Magpies are looking to capitalize on their home advantage at St. James’ Park to secure a top-12 finish.
- Bodo Glimt vs. Manchester City: A trip to the Arctic Circle for Erling Haaland and co. as they aim to leapfrog PSG into 3rd.
Editor’s Note: Keep an eye on the “Live Table” during the final 20 minutes of the matches. With so many teams tied on 12 and 13 points, a single goal anywhere in Europe can shift three or four teams across the qualification lines!
Where to Watch
- USA: CBS Sports, Paramount+, ViX
- UK: TNT Sports, Amazon Prime Video
- Global: Check your local listings for 20:00 CET kick-offs.
