Story byBarcelona’s possible opponents if the Champions League standings stay the sameBarca UniversalThu, January 22, 2026 at 8:40 AM UTC·2 min readThe race to secure a place in the top eight of the UEFA Champions League standings is reaching a decisive stage, and recent results have largely worked in favour of Barcelona. Barça’s hard-fought 4-2 victory over Slavia Praha has lifted them up to ninth place, keeping their European hopes very much alive heading into the final round of matches. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWith just one game left in the league phase, the margins are incredibly fine, as Barcelona currently sit ninth, while Atletico Madrid occupy 11th place with equal points. Despite their positions outside the automatic qualification spots, both clubs remain firmly in contention to break into the top eight when the final fixtures are played. Everything is still open, and goal difference, head-to-head scenarios, and late drama are likely to play a decisive role. Potential classification and matchesElsewhere, Athletic Club find themselves in a different but equally tense situation. While direct qualification for the round of 16 is no longer possible, a playoff place remains within reach. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementFor Barcelona, the focus is not only on results but also on potential scenarios. If Barça were to finish ninth, attention would turn to the playoff draw and the identity of their possible opponents. Barcelona need to win their last group stage match. (Photo by Gabriel Kuchta/)Under the current Champions League format, the pairings are directly linked to a team’s final position in the league standings. Each club knows in advance that only two possible opponents are waiting for them. In practical terms, the team finishing 9th will be drawn against either the 23rd or 24th-ranked side. As such, the playoff round is structured around two pots.