Champions League Knockout Deciders: Predicted Line-Ups and Team News for Tuesday’s Play-Off Clashes

Newcastle and Inter face injury crises while Atleti hunts for a win. Get the 2026 Champions League predicted XIs and team news for Tuesday's knockout deciders.

By: AXL Media

Published: Feb 24, 2026, 6:29 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from UEFA

The Play-Off Deciders: High Stakes on Tuesday Night

The inaugural season of the new Champions League format enters a critical stage on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, as the knockout phase play-offs determine which clubs will advance to the final sixteen. The second-leg fixtures feature several of Europe’s heavyweights attempting to overturn first-leg deficits or consolidate narrow leads. With the elimination of the away goals rule in recent seasons, the tactical approach for these matches has shifted, making the availability of key personnel and the choice of starting eleven more vital than ever for coaches and fantasy football managers alike.

Atletico Madrid vs. Club Brugge: Injury Challenges for Simeone

Atleti enters their clash with Club Brugge facing notable absences in the middle of the park. Manager Diego Simeone will be without Barrios (muscle injury) and Gonzalez (thigh), placing more pressure on veteran Koke and the versatile Llorente to control the midfield. Predicted to start in a 4-4-2 or variant, Atleti may rely on the attacking duo of Alvarez and Sørloth to break down a resilient Brugge side. For Club Brugge, the absence of the suspended Onyedika is a significant blow, while several players, including Sandra and Spileers, remain doubtful due to illness.

Bayer Leverkusen vs. Olympiacos: Schick Returns to the Spotlight

Bayer Leverkusen looks to secure their progression with Patrik Schick leading the line. Despite a minor doubt regarding Tillman's ankle, Leverkusen’s predicted XI features a robust core including Andrich and Tapsoba in defense. Olympiacos arrives with a relatively clean bill of health but must navigate several disciplinary risks; key players such as Hezze and Taremi are one yellow card away from a suspension. The Greek side is expected to field a tactical setup focused on Gelson Martins and Podence to provide service to Taremi.