Lyon, Wolfsburg, Roma, Galatasaray
Back-to-back Serie A champions Roma appeared to be the most formidable team in Pot 3 of this draw, making any group they were placed in potentially the most competitive. This intriguing group is no exception, posing a significant challenge for record eight-time winners Lyon and six-time finalists Wolfsburg. Roma will draw on their European experience from last season, which included two thrilling draws against Bayern Munich. Debutants Galatasaray, featuring Catalina Usme, one of Colombia’s stars from their 2023 World Cup run, will also be tough opponents. Lyon, last season’s runners-up under new manager Joe Montemurro, is expected to advance, leveraging their extensive experience. However, the same cannot be said for Wolfsburg, who lost key players Lena Oberdorf, Ewa Pajor, and Dominique Janssen this summer.
To progress: Lyon and Roma.
Chelsea, Real Madrid, FC Twente, Celtic
Chelsea, the Women’s Super League champions, will be pleased with their draw, avoiding lengthy away trips and facing opponents within 400 miles of London. Real Madrid’s underwhelming record in this competition makes them, theoretically, the easier of the two Pot 2 opponents. Chelsea’s new manager, Sonia Bompastor, has experience of winning this competition, and her side is among the favorites. Celtic, making history by qualifying for the group stage for the first time, faces a steep challenge to reach the knockout stages. Twente, the Eredivisie champions, could push Real Madrid.
To progress: Chelsea and Real Madrid.
Bayern Munich, Arsenal, Juventus, Vålerenga
Arsenal, back in the group stages after a year’s absence, has drawn the toughest group among the English clubs. However, they have a strong chance of progressing. Their clashes with Bayern Munich will evoke memories of their 2023 quarter-final victory, but Bayern has since strengthened and will be a formidable opponent. Juventus’ stunning victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the qualifying rounds and Vålerenga’s status as Norwegian champions make this a challenging group for Jonas Eidevall’s team. Yet, Arsenal and Bayern, given their resources, are expected to advance.
To progress: Arsenal and Bayern Munich.
Barcelona, Manchester City, St Pölten, Hammarby
Manchester City, participating in the group stages for the first time since the competition’s format change in 2021, is eager to make up for lost time. Their games against Barcelona will rekindle their 2020-21 quarter-final rivalry, where Barcelona went on to win their first of three European titles. This group could see City face former players Keira Walsh and Ellie Roebuck, as well as Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí. While City’s comfortable qualifying performance and St Pölten’s 7-0 loss to Lyon last season suggest some one-sided matches, it would be a surprise if City and Barcelona did not qualify for the knockout stages.
To progress: Manchester City and Barcelona.
