UEFA Women's Champions League: Ranking quarterfinalists with Barcelona the favorites, Chelsea not in top four
CBS Sports
by
Sandra Herrera
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The 2025-26 UEFA Women's Champions League is set to enter its quarterfinal stage, with eight teams battling it out for Europe’s top prize. Barcelona and Olympique Lyonnais stand as strong contenders, having dominated their respective groups with impressive goal differentials. Arsenal and Manchester United also shine in the rankings, showcasing their ability to compete at the highest level despite initial challenges. The knockout phase has revealed a competitive landscape where established powerhouses like Chelsea and Bayern Munich hold firm, while others like Wolfsburg demonstrate resilience.
The competition’s new format, featuring an 18-team Swiss model league phase, has injected excitement into the tournament. Teams like Real Madrid and Wolfsburg have proven their mettle in the knockout rounds, with standout performances from players such as Melchie Dumornay of Lyon and Olivia Smith of Arsenal. Barcelona’s dominance is evident, highlighted by a commanding 7-1 victory over Bayern Munich, while their attacking trio of Alexia Putellas, Claudia Pina, and Vicky Lopez continues to impress.
The quarterfinal matchups promise thrilling encounters, with top-tier clubs like Manchester United facing off against Bayern Munich, and Arsenal clashing with Chelsea. These fixtures will test the teams’ tactical acumen and resilience under pressure. The stakes are high as the tournament progresses, offering fans a mix of star-studded lineups and emerging talents.
The Women’s Champions League has become a pivotal stage for female footballers to showcase their skills on a global platform. The tournament not only highlights the growing talent
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/19/2026