1980–81 European Cup
The European Champion Clubs' Cup in 1980/81 was the 26th edition of the competition. 33 club teams participated, including 32 national champions from the previous season and with Nottingham Forest, the defending champion. The Parc des Princes stadium in Paris was on May 27, 1981 scene of the finale.
The participants played in the pure Cup mode (except for the final) round-trip games for the crown of European club football. In Torgleichstand first counted the greater number of away goals scored; there was also this a tie, the second leg was extended and, if necessary, immediately then discharged a penalty shootout to decide.
Preliminary round
The first leg was held on August 16, instead of the return match on September 3, 1980.
First round
The first legs took place on 16-17. (Belfast vs. Nantes) September, the return matches on 1 October 1980 instead.
2nd round
The first legs took place on November 5, 1980 October 22, the return games.
Quarterfinals
The first legs took place on 18 March 1981 on the 4th, the return games.
Semifinal
The first legs took place on April 22, 1981 on the 8th, the return games.