The fifth matchday of the Champions League 2025 league phase left a very different picture for Spanish clubs. With the new single-table format, every point is crucial, and the recent performance of Spain’s teams marks deep contrasts between those vying to enter the round of 16 and those still fighting for survival in Europe. Real Madrid is the only Spanish team in the top 8, the zone that gives direct access to the round of 16. The white team is in fifth place with 12 points, behind Arsenal (15), PSG (12), Bayern (12) and Inter (12). Although they have not shown absolute superiority, Madrid remain solid and keep their destiny in their own hands.
The case of Barcelona is much more complicated. The azulgrana team plummeted to 18th place, leaving them not only out of the top 8, but even out of a comfortable playoff. To avoid dropping out of the Champions League play-offs, Barça needs to take the remaining nine points and wait for results, with maximum pressure on a team that has not found consistency.
Atlético tightens the fight for the round of 16
Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid took an important step forward by defeating Inter at home.
This puts them on 9 points and just one point away from the Champions League round of 16 zone.
The red and white team still depends on itself, but has no margin for error.
Athletic Club, with 4 points, still has a small mathematical hope of getting into the qualification zone, although their path is complex.
On the other hand, Villarreal, with just one point, is practically eliminated from European competition.
Current top 8 ranking
Every point is crucial
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Arsenal – 15 pts
2. PSG – 12 pts
3. Bayern – 12 pts
4. Inter – 12 pts
5. Real Madrid – 12 pts
6. Dortmund – 10 pts
7. Chelsea – 10 pts
8. Sporting CP – 10 pts
Play-off qualification (places 9-24)
Powerful teams such as Manchester City, Atlético, Liverpool or Tottenham are obliged to fight for a play-off.
City, for example, drops to 9th place despite having 10 points, due to goal difference and tie-breaker criteria.
Barcelona is 18th, with only 7 points.
Teams in the elimination zone (places 25-36)
Benfica, with 3 points, is fighting for survival, while Ajax, with 0 points, is the worst team in the tournament, with only one goal scored.
How the Champions League phase works
The new Champions League format establishes:
Top 8 → go straight to the round of 16
9th to 24th places → play round-robin play-offs
25th to 36th places → eliminated from Europe
This system increases the tension in each day.
For U.S. Hispanics, many of whom are fans of Spanish clubs, this Champions League finals will be decisive:
Real Madrid can seal their qualification early, Atletico are still dreaming of the Round of 16 and Barça are obliged to make a perfect comeback.
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