The group stage of the Champions League came to an exhilarating conclusion, with the final day featuring 18 matches played simultaneously. After an intense league phase, which required each of the 36 competing teams to play eight matches, 12 clubs have been eliminated, while the tournament now moves closer to the knockout stages.
Arsenal made history during the league phase by finishing with a perfect record, becoming the first team to win all eight games since the current format was instituted. Meanwhile, last year’s champions, Paris Saint-Germain, could only manage an 11th place finish, which relegates them to the playoff round for a chance to progress further.
The top eight teams have advanced directly to the round of 16, while teams placed ninth through 24th will enter a two-legged playoff to secure their positions in the knockout stages. The final standings place Arsenal at the top with 24 points, followed by Bayern Munich with 21 points, and Liverpool in third with 18 points.
The knockout stage matchups will be established by UEFA’s draw scheduled for January 30, determining which teams will face off in the playoff round and the round of 16.
Key playoff dates are set for the first legs on February 17 and 18, with the second legs following on February 24 and 25. The Round of 16 first legs will take place on March 10 and 11, concluding with the second legs on March 17 and 18. As fans anticipate these matches, excitement builds as teams vie for glory in one of football’s most prestigious tournaments.
This year’s competition promises thrilling action as clubs push towards the ultimate prize: the Champions League trophy.