Alpha News

Champions League: Treacherous Tests for the Favorites

Published February 18, 2026, 09:30

The schedule of the first playoff matches of the Champions League is completed today, with Olympiacos facing Bayer Leverkusen. In addition to this match, there are three other interesting games, with Karabakh facing Newcastle, Inter facing Bodø/Glimt, and Atlético Madrid facing Club Brugge. Although Newcastle, Inter, and Atlético are considered favorites, the matches are expected to be difficult due to the conditions and the quality of their opponents. Inter will play on an artificial turf pitch, while Atlético will face a strong Club Brugge at their home ground. The matches are expected to be tests for the favorites.