UEFA Women's Champions League begins with key matchups on September 22

The 2026-27 UEFA Women’s Champions League season kicks off on September 22 with 18 teams vying for the title. Reigning champions FC Barcelona will defend their crown, albeit without key player Alexia Putellas. Debutantes Inter Milan and Austria Wien add new competition to this expanded single-league format, where each team plays six matches. The top four clubs will advance to the quarterfinals, while teams placed fifth to twelfth vie in playoff rounds for additional quarterfinal spots. The opening matchday features notable contests, including Bayern Munich facing Manchester City and Arsenal meeting HB Koge.

• 10:45 PMCBS Sports — UEFA Women's Champions League: What to know, how to watch, contenders, newcomers and more