An exhilarating Super Cup clash in Budapest last week set the tone for the 63rd edition of the Champions League. The opening matches on Tuesday and Wednesday will mark the start of what promises to be one of the most competitive seasons in recent years.
The 2026 campaign features a deeper pool of contenders. Several clubs that missed the spotlight last year — or didn’t even feature — have strengthened significantly. Ferencváros begin their title defence aiming to become only the third club in history to win three straight European crowns, joining Pro Recco and Mladost in that elite company. But this time, the challenge looks fiercer than ever.
Pro Recco return to the top competition eager to reclaim their throne and chase a record 12th title. Olympiacos, Radnički, Mladost, Barceloneta and Marseille are all capable of reaching the semifinals, while both Jadrans and Novi Beograd have Final Four ambitions too. With most heavyweights clustered in Groups A and B, early points will matter.
Group A
Olympiacos endured a frustrating 2025, falling short in the Quarter Final Stage, but a new era begins under Elvis Fatović. Gergo Zalánki and Daniel Angyal headline a roster that still has the quality to challenge deep into the tournament.
Radnički enjoyed a dream domestic season, winning both the Serbian championship and the Regional League, while taking silver in the Euro Cup. With stars like Jaksic, Prlainovic, and Rašović, they’re serious contenders for top spot.
Mladost return to the Champions League after five years away, boasting a formidable squad including Lončar, Kharkov and Bukić. Their dominant qualifying campaign showed they mean business.
Vasas complete the group — young, ambitious, and dangerous on their day. If they find rhythm early, a Quarterfinal place is within reach.
Round 1: Radnički v Vasas, Olympiacos v Mladost (Oct 14, 20:30)
Group B
Pro Recco’s return is the headline. After conquering the Euro Cup, Sandro Sukno’s side — featuring Granados, Di Fulvio and Irving — are the clear favourites to top the group.
Novi Beograd remain a force despite rejuvenating their squad. After three straight finals appearances, they’ll once again expect to feature at the sharp end. Jadran Split and Jadran Herceg Novi, both national champions, are evenly matched and capable of springing an upset.
Round 1: Jadran HN v Jadran Split (Oct 14, 18:30), Novi Beograd v Pro Recco (Oct 15, 20:30)
Group C
Ferencváros have already collected the Hungarian Cup and Super Cup — and will now look to extend their dominance in Europe. Nyéki’s team, led by Mandic, Manhercz and a fit-again Vogel, are heavy favourites to win the group.
Behind them, Primorac, Brescia and Oradea will battle for second place. The Montenegrins, with veterans like Inaba and Brguljan, may have the edge, though Brescia’s youthful energy and Oradea’s chemistry make this one to watch.
Round 1: Ferencváros v Oradea (Oct 15, 18:30), Primorac v Brescia (Oct 15, 20:30)
Group D
Barceloneta and Marseille headline this group — and both have evolved since their bronze-medal clash last June. Fran Fernández’s new-look Barceloneta, featuring Aguirre, Munárriz and rising star Vince Vigvári, remain one of Europe’s most complete teams. Marseille, with Vernoux and Crousillat, are right behind them and capable of big nights.
Sabadell haven’t started well but have quality to respond, while Waspo Hannover will be searching for their first European win since 2023.
Round 1: Marseille v Hannover (Oct 14, 20:30), Sabadell v Barceloneta (Oct 15, 20:30)
Read more about the water polo Champions League
Follow Waterpolo 360 on Facebook, Instagram and X