Value Bets to Watch: Big Fixtures in the 2025-26 UCL League Phase

The 2025–26 UEFA Champions League season will be the second one under the “new” Swiss format. It includes 36 teams that all play against eight different opponents and are then ranked on a single table. Such a format means there will be more big fixture matches, which is tougher on the teams but better for the fans.

In this article, we’ll go over some of the big fixtures to keep an eye on. Crypto sports betting sites have already posted odds on these matches, and all of them are value bets since the teams are evenly matched and could go either way. Experts from CryptoManiaks claim that these sites allow players to make safe bets without providing their personal data.

What Makes a Fixture Big?

According to our own definition, fixtures on our list are chosen based on the matchup between the teams. Those are matchups between two top teams that are evenly matched in star power and strategy.

In some cases, the teams differ in style and strategy. Such a matchup will be interesting because, in a way, it’s a battle of the minds between the two coaches and their teams.

We’ve also taken into account home strength and the atmosphere created by the fans. Heated matchups with huge fan bases are electric, and there’s plenty of evidence that fans affect the outcome in many ways.

Real Madrid vs. Manchester City

The duel between the two European heavyweights would be one of the most exciting to see, and it’s hard to say who would be the favorite. Man City is a slight favorite according to betting sites, but this wager should be made with an over/under bet and player props once the lineup is confirmed.

Madrid likes to control through wide fullbacks and transition, while City relies on positional fluidity and overloads. City will dominate possession, but that’s the best time to counter when a gap opens in the defense.

Real Madrid vs. Liverpool

Another possible clash between two of Europe’s biggest teams and the two with the greatest stars on the roster. The teams also couldn’t be more different when it comes to tactics, as Liverpool plays fast, especially so when it’s under pressure. On the other hand, Real Madrid has a stronger defense and can be valuable under pressure. In a way, it would be a game of nerves.

The best bet is a “both teams to score” bet, since both teams have strong attacking qualities. It’s also lucrative to pay attention to corners, especially if Liverpool keeps up the pressure, since that’s when there are many corners.

Manchester City vs Borussia Dortmund

This is a high-tempo game between two teams that have very different styles. Matchups such as that are the most fun to watch. City will focus on possession, as they always do, and Dortmund will use the counter and pressing. Dortmund can transition quickly, and that move is the basis of their tactic. If City commits numbers forward, they’ll be vulnerable to such an attack.

The best bets to make on this one are: first-half goal lines or “goal bands” (e.g., 2–4 goals) and shot props for the Borussia Dortmund players, who will probably be the first to score.

PSG vs Bayern Munich

This is the duel of the pot one, and it will attract the attention of both fans and bettors. Both teams also have deep rosters, and rotation may be the way to get ahead with this one. Bayern often pushes high; PSG can combine width and individual brilliance.

The best way to choose a wager on this one is to keep track of the lineups. If the teams use their top stars, bettors should adjust their props accordingly. Under and over bets are also good bets for both teams, as the game could be high-scoring.

 Arsenal vs Bayern Munich

Both teams are at the top of their leagues, and this is one of those games where home turf advantage will mean a lot and could even push Arsenal over the edge. Bayern tends to use transitions and wide players, while Arsenal is more aggressive from the start. Both tactics have their advantages, and there’s only one way to see which one comes out on top.

Bayern Munich is the favorite, so that a good value bet would be an “Asian handicap” on Arsenal. Over 2.5 would also improve the bet.

A few big matchups are coming in the UCL League phase, with some of the best European teams competing against each other. The teams also differ in style and approach, which makes for great viewing for fans and betting for bettors. Most matchups will be close, and parlay bets are the way to go.