All about the 2025/26 Champions League Play-Off Draw
Abstract
The 2025/26 Champions League redefines its path to glory with the play-off draw on January 30, 2026, in Nyon. Under a revamped format, the teams ranked 9th to 24th in the group stage will compete for the remaining eight spots in the round of 16. The draw divides the clubs into seeded (9th-16th) and unseeded (17th-24th) teams, with pairings designed to ensure balance. Geographical restrictions are eliminated, allowing for matches between compatriots or rematches from the qualifying rounds. Giants like Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Barcelona could compete in this knockout stage, increasing the tension of a tournament where every tie promises to be a final in itself.
References
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