How the new Champions League format works

Since the 2024/25 season, the UEFA Champions League has left the traditional group stage behind. In its place came the league phase, a model that changed the way clubs qualify for the knockout rounds. In this guide we explain everything, without the jargon.

1. How many teams take part?

The competition grew from 32 to 36 clubs. Instead of being split into eight groups of four, every team now sits in one single league table.

2. How many matches does each team play?

Each club plays 8 matches in the league phase: 4 at home and 4 away. Opponents are decided by a draw based on seeding pots. Every team faces two opponents from each of the four pots, which balances the level of difficulty.

One key difference: teams do not play all of the other 35 clubs, and they never face the same opponent twice in this phase.

3. Who goes through to the next round?

In other words, finishing in the top eight is a big advantage: fewer matches and more rest before the knockout rounds.

4. What happens after the round of 16?

From the round of 16 onwards, the format returns to what fans already know: two-legged ties (round of 16, quarter-finals and semi-finals) and a one-off final at a stadium chosen in advance by UEFA.

5. Why did UEFA change the format?

The aim was to create more matches between strong clubs from the very start and to make every matchday more decisive. With a single table, one goal on the final matchday can change the position of several teams at once, which keeps the excitement going until the end.

Quick summary: 36 teams, 8 matches each, the top 8 go straight to the round of 16, 9th to 24th play a play-off and the rest are eliminated.

Frequently asked questions

Are the tie-breakers the same?

If teams are level on points, goal difference and goals scored come first, followed by other criteria set out in the UEFA regulations.

Did the Europa League and Conference League change too?

Yes. UEFA's other two club competitions adopted a similar league-phase format.