Home / Sports / UEFA Champions League: New Knockout Format Explained
UEFA Champions League: New Knockout Format Explained
29 Jan
Summary
- 24 teams advance to the new knockout stage after the league phase.
- Top eight teams directly qualify for the Round of 16.
- Playoff round matches teams ranked 9th-24th for remaining spots.
The 2025/26 UEFA Champions League knockout stage ushers in a significant format change, with 24 teams now vying for the coveted title. Following the conclusion of the league phase, the top eight clubs will secure direct entry into the Round of 16. This new structure aims to provide a more defined path to European glory.
The remaining sixteen teams, ranked from 9th to 24th, will participate in a two-legged playoff round. These crucial matches will determine the final eight qualifiers for the Round of 16. The playoff matchups are seeded based on league standings, pairing higher-ranked teams against lower-ranked ones.
Two draws will shape the knockout bracket: one on January 30 to finalize playoff matchups, and another on February 27 to set the entire Round of 16 bracket. This ensures that by February 27, every potential pathway to the final will be established, creating a clear roadmap for the remainder of the competition.
