The UEFA Champions League knockout round playoffs return this Tuesday with high-stakes clashes as teams battle for a coveted spot in the Round of 16. Here’s a look at the upcoming matchups, key stats, and where to watch the action unfold.
Bayern Munich vs. Celtic
Match Details:
- Date: Tuesday, February 18, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 14:00 CDT
- Venue: Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany
- Where to Watch: SS Premier League, Paramount+
Bayern Munich and Celtic meet again after last week’s 2-1 victory for the German giants. Vincent Kompany’s men hold an impressive unbeaten home record in Bavaria over 20 matches, with just four ending in a draw. Bayern’s weekend goalless draw against Bayer Leverkusen was only their second non-win in 11 matches, but they continue to dominate the Bundesliga with a staggering 65 goals scored this season.
Celtic, who felt unlucky with an early offside call in the first leg, have historically struggled against Bayern, losing four of their last five encounters. Domestically, Brendan Rodgers’ side leads the Scottish Premiership by 13 points. Despite their prolific scoring form—netting three or more goals in four of their last five games—they have a concerning record in European away fixtures, with no wins in their last 12 matches.
AC Milan vs. Feyenoord
Match Details:
- Date: Tuesday, February 18, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 11:45 CDT
- Venue: San Siro, Milan, Italy
- Where to Watch: SS Premier League, Paramount+
AC Milan welcomes Feyenoord to the San Siro, aiming to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg. The Dutch side stunned Milan with a third-minute goal from Igor Paixão, while goalkeeper Timon Wellenreuther made six crucial saves to keep the Italians out.
Milan’s home form is strong, with four wins and a draw in their last five matches across all competitions. However, history isn’t on their side, as they’ve only advanced once in their last six Champions League knockout ties when losing the first leg. Former Feyenoord striker Santiago Giménez, who joined Milan in January for €32 million, will look to make an impact against his former club.
Atalanta BC vs. Club Brugge
Match Details:
- Date: Tuesday, February 18, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 14:00 CDT
- Venue: Gewiss Stadium, Bergamo, Italy
- Where to Watch: SS Africa 2 HD, Paramount+
Atalanta faces Club Brugge at the Gewiss Stadium, trailing by one goal after a controversial penalty decided the first leg in Belgium. Mario Pasalic had earlier equalized before Isak Hien’s foul on Gustaf Nilsson led to Brugge’s winning penalty.
Atalanta has struggled for consistency, drawing 0-0 with Cagliari in Serie A over the weekend. Their record in the Champions League knockout rounds isn’t promising, with only one previous tie win in club history. Meanwhile, Club Brugge has momentum, extending their unbeaten European home run to four matches and maintaining a four-match undefeated streak in all competitions.
A draw would be enough for Club Brugge to advance, and history favors them, having progressed in 14 of their last 16 European knockout ties after winning the first leg at home.
SL Benfica vs. Monaco
Match Details:
- Date: Tuesday, February 18, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 14:00 CDT, 1
- Venue: Estádio da Luz, Lisbon, Portugal
- Where to Watch: SuperSport PSL
Benfica faces Monaco at home, with both teams battling for a place in the next round. Benfica’s home form has been solid this season, while Monaco will look to capitalize on their attacking prowess to break through the Portuguese defense.
