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Champions League 2025/26: Matchday 1 Tips

The Champions League is finally back, bringing with it some blockbuster clashes and the presence of some of the best footballers on the planet.

Matchday 1 in the new-look League Phase of this famous competition always promises plenty of emotions, with encounters between Europe’s biggest clubs.

Here are a few betting tips for some of the most exciting games this week, along with the best bet on football odds to guide your sports betting. You can also watch your favourite sporting events live with betFIRST TV!

*All odds are subject to change

Draw between Athletic Bilbao and Arsenal @ 3.75

It’s no secret in the footballing world: Bilbao are known for being a very difficult team to beat at their home of San Mamés. Athletic boast a proud European history and are capable of upsetting anyone. Arsenal, on the other hand, have plenty of attacking firepower, but a long injury list (including Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz) could have an impact here. Coming away from Spain with a point would be a decent result for the Gunners.

Bayer Leverkusen to beat FC Copenhagen @ 2.25

Since Erik ten Hag’s departure, Leverkusen have improved – which is perhaps not a shock. The Germans claimed a 3-1 home win against Eintracht Frankfurt over the weekend and seem to have regained their confidence. This trip to Copenhagen comes at just the right time: a victory could truly kickstart their season. The Danish side, meanwhile, are coming off a 2-1 defeat to Brondby last Saturday and will be eager to bounce back in front of their home fans. Considering current form and the quality of the squads, we’re backing a Leverkusen win here.

Liverpool vs Atletico Madrid: Under 2.5 goals @ 2.27

This is a real clash between two teams who know each other well, with recent encounters often proving tight. The 10 matches between them from 2008 to 2021 ended with four wins for Atlético, three for Liverpool, and three draws. Diego Simeone’s Atlético remain faithful to their defensive solidity and quick transitions. Liverpool, despite their attacking firepower, could struggle to find space against the Spaniards’ low block. In a tense contest where mistakes are costly, a cagey game at Anfield with only a few goals looks likely.

Bayern Munich vs Chelsea: Michael Olise to score anytime @ 2.80

With three goals and one assist already in the Bundesliga, Michael Olise is in superb form this season. The French forward continues to showcase his attacking potential week in week out. Able to dribble past defenders with ease and deliver in big games, the former Crystal Palace player could once again make the difference vs Chelsea. In a high-level contest full of intensity and chances, betting on Olise to score anytime looks like a wise option, especially at such an attractive price.

 

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