Analysis

How the New UEFA Champions League Format Works

Sportera · 2026-07-04 · 22

Starting from the 2024/25 season, UEFA overhauled the Champions League format, replacing the traditional group stage with a single League Phase.

36 teams, one table

Instead of eight groups of four, 36 clubs now sit in one league table. Each team plays 8 matches against 8 different opponents (four home, four away).

Qualification

  • Positions 1–8: straight to the Round of 16.
  • Positions 9–24: a two-legged play-off for the remaining Round of 16 spots.
  • Positions 25–36: eliminated from Europe entirely.

The goal is more big matches earlier and a table that stays exciting until the final matchday.

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