Champions League 2025-26 Power Rankings: Resurgent Marcus Rashford keeps Barcelona on top but Cole Palmer-dependent Chelsea slide down the standings
The Champions League rarely fails to disappoint. The league phase of this season's competition kicked off this week, with the action spread over three evenings. There was a comfortable win for Arsenal in Bilbao on Tuesday, but Real Madrid had to work hard to see off Marseille. Elsewhere, Juventus came back from the dead in a 4-4 thriller with Borussia Dortmund, and Qarabag stunned Benfica in Lisbon.The following night, Bayern Munich put world champions Chelsea firmly in their place, Liverpool staged another late show at Anfield, while PSG kicked off their campaign by destroying Atalanta. On Thursday, Club Brugge battered Monaco in Belgium before Marcus Rashford reminded everyone of his talents with a wonderful double in Barcelona's win at Newcastle.There were so many other fascinating fixtures, though, so how is everyone shaping up after matchday one? GOAL ranks and rates all 36 participations in the 2025-26 Champions League below...Previous update: September 16.
The Champions League rarely fails to disappoint. The league phase of this season's competition kicked off this week, with the action spread over three evenings. There was a comfortable win for Arsenal in Bilbao on Tuesday, but Real Madrid had to work hard to see off Marseille. Elsewhere, Juventus came back from the dead in a 4-4 thriller with Borussia Dortmund, and Qarabag stunned Benfica in Lisbon.The following night, Bayern Munich put world champions Chelsea firmly in their place, Liverpool staged another late show at Anfield, while PSG kicked off their campaign by destroying Atalanta. On Thursday, Club Brugge battered Monaco in Belgium before Marcus Rashford reminded everyone of his talents with a wonderful double in Barcelona's win at Newcastle.There were so many other fascinating fixtures, though, so how is everyone shaping up after matchday one? GOAL ranks and rates all 36 participations in the 2025-26 Champions League below...Previous update: September 16.
Arsenal and Real Madrid Impress
Arsenal's confident display in Bilbao highlighted their readiness for a strong campaign, while Real Madrid's hard-fought victory over Marseille proved their resilience in this prestigious competition.
Juventus and Qarabag Deliver Thrills
Juventus and Borussia Dortmund served up a thrilling 4-4 draw, showcasing the unpredictability and excitement that the Champions League is known for. Meanwhile, Qarabag's surprise win against Benfica stunned fans and experts alike.
Bayern Munich Dominates Chelsea
Bayern Munich's dominant performance against Chelsea, the reigning world champions, sent a strong message to the rest of the competition. Chelsea's reliance on Cole Palmer was evident as they faced a tough defeat.
Liverpool and PSG Shine
Liverpool's late heroics at Anfield once again demonstrated their never-say-die attitude, while PSG's emphatic win over Atalanta showcased their attacking prowess and ambitions in the tournament.
Marcus Rashford Leads Barcelona
Marcus Rashford's standout performance with a brilliant double in Barcelona's victory against Newcastle reminded football fans of his exceptional talents and importance to his team's success.
Club Brugge Thrashes Monaco
Club Brugge's commanding win over Monaco in Belgium highlighted their strong start to the Champions League campaign, positioning them as potential dark horses in the competition.
Power Rankings and Standings
With the thrilling matches and standout performances from top teams and players, the power rankings for the 2025-26 Champions League are sure to witness significant changes. Stay tuned for the latest updates and analysis as the competition progresses.
