Champions League Knockout Play-Off Draw Announced

Revamped Champions League Format

In the 2024/25 season, UEFA implemented a new structure for the Champions League. The traditional group stage has been replaced by a single league phase, where all participating teams are ranked based on their performance. The top eight teams from this league phase automatically advance to the Round of 16. Teams placed 9th to 24th enter the knockout phase play-offs, competing in two-legged ties to secure their progression.

uefa.com

Top Eight Teams Advancing Directly to Round of 16

The following teams have secured direct entry into the Round of 16, courtesy of their top-eight finishes in the league phase:

1. Liverpool
2. Barcelona
3. Arsenal
4. Inter Milan
5. Atlético Madrid
6. Bayer Leverkusen
7. Lille
8. Aston Villa

Knockout Phase Play-Off Draw

The draw for the knockout phase play-offs has produced several enticing fixtures:

• Bracket 1:
  • Brest vs. Paris Saint-Germain
  • AS Monaco vs. Benfica
  • Winners will face Liverpool or Barcelona in the Round of 16.
• Bracket 2:
  • Juventus vs. PSV
  • Feyenoord vs. AC Milan
  • Winners will face Arsenal or Inter Milan in the Round of 16.
• Bracket 3:
  • Manchester City vs. Real Madrid
  • Bayern Munich vs. Celtic
  • Winners will face Atlético Madrid or Bayer Leverkusen in the Round of 16.
• Bracket 4:
  • Atalanta vs. Club Brugge
  • Borussia Dortmund vs. Sporting CP
  • Winners will face Lille or Aston Villa in the Round of 16.

Key Matchup: Manchester City vs. Real Madrid

Among the standout fixtures, the clash between Manchester City and Real Madrid has garnered significant attention. Both clubs boast rich histories in European football, and their encounter promises to be a highlight of the knockout phase. Manchester City, under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, has been a dominant force in domestic competitions and is eager to translate that success onto the European stage. Real Madrid, the most decorated club in Champions League history, aims to add another title to their illustrious record.

Underdogs and Potential Surprises

The knockout phase also presents opportunities for underdog teams to make their mark. Clubs like Brest, making a rare appearance at this stage, face formidable opponents such as Paris Saint-Germain. These matchups embody the unpredictable nature of the Champions League, where surprises are always possible.

Schedule and Broadcast Information

The two-legged knockout phase play-off ties are scheduled for 11/12 and 18/19 February. Fans can catch the action live on various platforms, including UEFA’s official website and affiliated broadcasters. For detailed viewing options, refer to local listings or visit UEFA’s official channels.

sportingnews.com

FAQs

1. What is the new format of the UEFA Champions League?
   • The 2024/25 season introduced a single league phase replacing the traditional group stage. The top eight teams advance directly to the Round of 16, while teams ranked 9th to 24th enter knockout phase play-offs to vie for the remaining spots. uefa.com
2. Which teams have qualified directly for the Round of 16?
   • The teams are Liverpool, Barcelona, Arsenal, Inter Milan, Atlético Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, Lille, and Aston Villa.
3. When will the knockout phase play-off matches take place?
   • The two-legged ties are scheduled for 11/12 and 18/19 February.
4. How can I watch the knockout phase play-off matches?
   • Matches will be broadcast on various platforms, including UEFA’s official website and affiliated broadcasters. Check local listings for specific channels and times. sportingnews.com
5. What happens after the knockout phase play-offs?
   • Winners of the play-off ties will advance to the Round of 16, joining the top eight teams from the league phase.