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Last 7 CL Spots: Europe's Elite Battle Begins
18 Aug
Summary
- 29 clubs qualified for the expanded 36-team Champions League league phase.
- Seven remaining spots will be decided through two-legged play-off matches.
- Paramount+ holds exclusive English-language U.S. rights to all matches.
The field for the expanded 36-team Champions League league phase in 2026/27 is nearly complete, with 29 clubs already qualified. Seven remaining berths will be contested through demanding two-legged play-off matches, serving as the final hurdle before the league phase draw.
Several clubs with significant European pedigree, including Celtic and Lyon, are vying for these spots. Alongside them are six clubs striving to reach the modern Champions League group stage for the very first time, including Viking FK, Hapoel Be'er Sheva, and Sabah. For these clubs, advancing represents a significant milestone, offering both financial rewards and a chance to compete against Europe's best.
The first leg of these crucial play-offs is scheduled for August 18 and 19, with return legs following the next week. In the United States, Paramount+ will exclusively stream all matches in English, while Spanish-language rights are held by TUDN and ViX for this stage.
