Women’s Champions League Returns with Expanded Format
The UEFA Women’s Champions League is gearing up for an exciting season as it makes its return with significant changes. This year, the tournament features 18 teams instead of the usual 16, along with a new format that includes a single group-stage table rather than multiple smaller groups. Fans in Europe can catch all the action streaming live on Disney+.
The 18 squads competing this season are defending champions Arsenal (ENG), Barcelona (ESP), OL Lyonnes (FRA), Chelsea (ENG), Bayern Munich (GER), Wolfsburg (GER), Paris Saint-Germain (FRA), Real Madrid (ESP), Juventus (ITA), Roma (ITA), St. Polten (AUT), Twente (NED), Vålerenga (NOR), Paris FC (FRA), Manchester United (ENG), Atlético Madrid (ESP), OH Leuven (BEL), and Benfica (POR).
As the competition kicks off on October 7, fans are wondering which team to support. To assist in your decision, we present eight questions that could help you narrow down your choices.
Does Winning the Champions League Matter to You?
If a history of success in Europe is important to you, options are limited this year. Out of the 18 teams, only four have previously lifted the trophy, with Eintracht Frankfurt failing to qualify this season despite their past success.
YES:
- OL Lyonnes boasts the most titles, having won it eight times. After finishing as runners-up to Barcelona in the 2024 final, they’ve invested heavily to reclaim their former glory.
- Barcelona has reached the final five times in five years, winning three times (2021, 2023, 2024), though they lost to Arsenal in the 2025 final.
- Wolfsburg secured back-to-back titles in 2013 and 2014 but has been less prominent since finishing as runners-up multiple times in recent years.
- Arsenal is the reigning champion, their first title since 2007.
NO:
All other teams, including Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, Benfica, and Juventus, have yet to claim a Champions League title. Notably, Manchester United and OH Leuven have never progressed to the group stage until now.
Are You Seeking a USWNT Player on Your Team?
The United States women’s national team is a powerhouse, though historically, only a handful of its stars played in Europe. Recently, that number has increased, with five current teams featuring USWNT internationals.
YES:
- OL Lyonnes: Players include Lindsey Heaps and Lily Yohannes.
- Arsenal: Represented by Emily Fox and Jenna Nighswonger.
- Chelsea: Includes Alyssa Thompson, Catarina Macario, and Naomi Girma.
- Paris Saint-Germain: Home to Crystal Dunn and Eva Gaetino.
- Manchester United: Features US stars as well.
Unique Team Mascots: Who Stands Out?
- OL Lyonnes: Their lion mascot.
- Juventus: Jay the Zebra, a fitting choice for their colors.
- Wolfsburg: Wölfi the Wolf.
- Paris Saint-Germain: Germain le Lynx, a symbol of strength.
- Roma: Romolo and Romina, representing the founders of Rome.
Whichever team you choose to support, the UEFA Women’s Champions League promises an exhilarating season ahead!
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