UCL: Who is through in Champions League and what's next?

The historic Champions League League Phase has concluded with some exciting matchups. Learn about the key takeaways and what's next for the top teams in the competition. Stay updated on all things UCL.

author-image
Daniel A.
New Update
Historic Champions League League Phase Concludes: Key Takeaways and What’s Next

Historic Champions League League Phase Concludes: Key Takeaways and What’s Next

The inaugural edition of the UEFA Champions League’s league phase has officially concluded, bringing a new era to Europe’s premier club competition. Instead of the traditional group-stage format, this season introduced a league phase in which each team played eight matches against different opponents, leading to an exciting and unpredictable tournament.

Following the conclusion of the league phase, the top eight teams have secured direct qualification to the Round of 16. Meanwhile, teams placed 9th through 24th will have to battle in the playoff stage for a chance to reach the knockout rounds. Unfortunately, the teams finishing in positions 25 through 36 have been eliminated and will not drop down to the UEFA Europa League.

Top 8 Teams Advance to Round of 16

The eight highest-ranked teams have been rewarded for their strong performances with automatic qualification to the Champions League Round of 16. Leading the pack is English powerhouse Liverpool, which won seven of its eight matches and finished atop the standings despite a final-round defeat after resting key players. Barcelona and Arsenal followed closely, cementing their status as top contenders for the title.

Here are the eight teams that secured direct passage to the Round of 16:

  1. Liverpool (England)

  2. Barcelona (Spain)

  3. Arsenal (England)

  4. Inter Milan (Italy)

  5. Atletico Madrid (Spain)

  6. Bayer Leverkusen (Germany)

  7. Lille LOSC (France)

  8. Aston Villa (England)

Among the notable teams in this group, Aston Villa’s presence in the top eight marks a significant achievement, highlighting their resurgence under Unai Emery. Meanwhile, Barcelona and Arsenal reaffirmed their strong European credentials, while Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid continued to showcase their continental pedigree.

Champions League Playoff Teams (9th - 24th Place)

While the top eight teams earned direct qualification, 16 other teams now face a two-legged playoff to secure a place in the Round of 16. The reigning champions, Real Madrid, found themselves in this group after struggling at times during the league phase. German giants Bayern Munich also fell short of an automatic spot, as did Premier League title holders Manchester City, who barely clinched a playoff place with a crucial win on the final matchday.

Here are the 16 teams that will battle in the playoff round:

  1. Atalanta (Italy)

  2. Borussia Dortmund (Germany)

  3. Real Madrid (Spain)

  4. Bayern Munich (Germany)

  5. AC Milan (Italy)

  6. PSV Eindhoven (Netherlands)

  7. Paris Saint-Germain (France)

  8. Benfica (Portugal)

  9. Monaco (France)

  10. Brest (France)

  11. Feyenoord (Netherlands)

  12. Juventus (Italy)

  13. Celtic (Scotland)

  14. Manchester City (England)

  15. Sporting CP (Portugal)

  16. Club Brugge (Belgium)

Among the major surprises, Manchester City’s low ranking will put them in a tough position heading into the playoffs, as they could face strong opposition early on. Meanwhile, PSG and Bayern Munich, usually title favorites, will also have to fight for their place in the next round.

Eliminated Teams (25th - 36th Place)

For 12 teams, the league phase marked the end of their Champions League journey. Unlike previous seasons, these teams will not be dropping into the Europa League, meaning their European campaigns have come to an abrupt end.

The eliminated teams are as follows:

  1. Dinamo Zagreb (Croatia)

  2. Stuttgart (Germany)

  3. Shakhtar Donetsk (Ukraine)

  4. Bologna (Italy)

  5. Crvena zvezda (Serbia)

  6. Sturm Graz (Austria)

  7. Sparta Praha (Czech Republic)

  8. RB Leipzig (Germany)

  9. Girona (Spain)

  10. Salzburg (Austria)

  11. Slovan Bratislava (Slovakia)

  12. Young Boys (Switzerland)

RB Leipzig’s elimination stands out as a major shock, considering their strong performances in recent seasons. Additionally, Spanish club Girona, which has been performing well domestically, failed to make a significant impact in Europe.

Key Dates: Playoffs and Round of 16

  • Champions League Playoff Draw: Friday, February 7, 2025

  • Playoff First Leg Matches: February 11-12, 2025

  • Playoff Second Leg Matches: February 18-19, 2025

  • Round of 16 Draw: Friday, February 21, 2025

  • Round of 16 Matches: Early March 2025

The playoffs will feature intense two-legged matchups, with the winners joining the top eight teams in the Round of 16. Unlike previous seasons, there will be no country protection, meaning clubs from the same nation can face each other earlier in the knockout stage. This could set up blockbuster clashes between Premier League or La Liga sides much sooner than anticipated.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect in the Knockouts

With the new format adding unpredictability, the Champions League knockout rounds are set to deliver even more excitement. Several major clubs, including Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City, have their work cut out for them in the playoffs, while emerging forces like Lille and Aston Villa will be eager to prove they belong among Europe’s elite.

Liverpool’s dominant form in the league phase makes them one of the favorites heading into the Round of 16, but history has shown that anything can happen in the Champions League knockout rounds. With the reigning champions Real Madrid facing an early challenge, and underdogs looking to make a deep run, the road to the final promises to be unpredictable and thrilling.

Football fans worldwide will be eagerly awaiting the next phase of the competition, where Europe’s best teams will battle for the most prestigious trophy in club football.

Elevate your betting experience with SKY247 Nigeria. Join now and discover a thrilling world of sports, live events, and exclusive bonuses. Bet with confidence on your favorite teams and games.

Uefa Champions League