The Women's Champions League playoff round begins with Arsenal facing OH Leuven in a crucial two-legged tie. The Belgian debutants stunned observers during the league phase, qualifying despite winning just one of six matches. Their success largely stems from goalkeeper Lowiese Seynhaeve, who posted an 82.5% save percentage and made 10+ saves in three appearances, including 14 against Barcelona.

Seynhaeve's heroics nearly held Barcelona to fewer than three goals despite facing 43 shots. Arsenal's 3-0 victory in the group stage required a rebound and deflection to beat her, as she produced 10 saves with seven from inside the penalty box. Renée Slegers' side, while boasting attacking talent, has shown wastefulness recently and must find a way past Leuven's defensive wall if they hope to defend their European crown.

Other notable playoff matchups include Real Madrid against Paris FC, where set-piece vulnerabilities could prove costly for the Spanish side, and Wolfsburg versus Juventus in a fascinating battle between youth and experience. Manchester United, making their debut campaign, face Atlético Madrid after finishing sixth in the league phase. With Barcelona, Lyon, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich waiting in the quarterfinals, every team must be at their best to advance in Europe's premier women's competition.