Semifinal First Leg: Bayern Munich vs FC Barcelona in the UEFA Women’s Champions League
Match Overview
The 2025-26 UEFA Women’s Champions League returns to center stage as Bayern Munich host FC Barcelona in the first leg of the semifinal. This clash marks a rematch of the league phase opener, where Barcelona routed Bayern 7-1 in October. Both teams have since navigated the new Swiss-format league phase and knockout rounds to reach this pivotal moment.
Barcelona enters as tournament favorites, boasting an unbeaten run and exceptional depth. Bayern Munich, however, have peaked at the right time, riding a 19-game winning streak and eager to avenge their earlier humbling defeat.
How to Watch the UWCL Semifinal
Paramount+ and CBS Sports Network will simulcast live coverage of the first leg on Saturday, April 25. Coverage begins with the UEFA Women’s Champions League Today pre-match show, followed by comprehensive analysis during halftime and a post-match recap.
Viewing Information (U.S. Eastern):
• Date: Saturday, April 25
• Time: 12:15 p.m. ET
• Venue: Allianz Arena, Munich
• TV: CBS Sports Network
• Stream: Paramount+
The second leg will take place on Sunday, May 3, with Bayern hosting Barcelona at 9 a.m. ET, also available on Paramount+ and CBS Sports Network.
Key Storylines Heading into the First Leg
Barcelona’s Quest to Defend Their Title
Barcelona set the pace in the revamped Women’s Champions League, topping the 18-team league phase with 16 points. They followed that performance with a dominant 12-goal haul over Real Madrid in the quarterfinals. Despite the absence of three-time Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí—recovering from a fractured fibula—the squad’s depth has shone through.
• Alexia Putellas leads with seven assists and five goals.
• Caroline Graham Hansen earned Player of the Match honors in the quarterfinal second leg.
• Ewa Pajor scored three times in the decisive quarterfinal.
Barcelona’s injury concerns extend to Salma Paralluelo and veteran Irene Paredes, but the Catalans possess enough quality to control the semifinal tie. For Barcelona, this semifinal represents another step toward a potential UWCL final appearance.
Bayern Munich’s Path to Redemption
After a disastrous 7-1 loss to Barcelona in October, Bayern Munich have demonstrated resilience. A 5-3 aggregate victory over Manchester United in the quarterfinals showcased their ability to respond under pressure. Key points:
• Bayern extended their club-winning streak to 19 matches.
• Injuries to Klara Bühl and Giulia Gwinn haven’t derailed their momentum.
• Coach emphasis on aggressive challenges and 100% effort.
“After studying the October match, we know what it takes to compete with Barcelona,” said Klara Bühl. Bayern’s home advantage at the Allianz Arena and a desire for revenge set the stage for an intense first leg.
What’s at Stake
The first leg in Munich will determine the tie’s balance before the return at Camp Nou. A positive result for Bayern could flip the script, while a Barcelona win would solidify their status as favorites. Both teams have demonstrated tactical versatility and attacking firepower, making this semifinal a must-watch for women’s soccer fans.
Stay tuned for expert analysis, player interviews, and live updates as the UEFA Women’s Champions League semifinal first leg unfolds.