How standings work in the new European club competition format
Instead of groups, a single table of 36 clubs. Understand who advances directly, who goes to the play-offs and how fixtures are decided.
Short answer: since the 2024/25 season, UEFA's Champions League and Europa League have replaced the group stage with a league phase featuring a single table of 36 clubs. Each club plays eight matches against eight different opponents. The top eight go straight to the round of 16, and teams ranked 9th to 24th play a two-leg play-off.
What changed
In the previous model, 32 clubs were split into eight groups of four. Now everyone appears in the same table, and each team faces different opponents without playing everyone.
How the matches work
Each club plays eight matches, four at home and four away. Opponents are drawn, with seeds organized into pots, so each team faces rivals of different levels.
The standings
- 1st to 8th: advance directly to the round of 16.
- 9th to 24th: play a two-leg play-off round, deciding the other places in the round of 16.
- 25th to 36th: eliminated.
Scoring: three points for a win, one for a draw. Tiebreakers include goal difference and goals scored, according to the regulations.
Why the change
UEFA sought more high-level matches, more decisive games until the end and greater commercial value. Critics point to a fuller calendar and possible inequality of opponents.
Other competitions
The Conference League also uses the league-phase format with 36 clubs, but each team plays six matches.
What to watch
A single table brings more complex maths in the final rounds, and the gap between 8th and 9th place can decide who skips the play-off.
A simple example
A club finishing 7th goes straight to the round of 16 and gains rest time. Another, in 10th, must play the play-off, with two extra matches. That is why every point in the final rounds can change the path in the knockout stage.
Notes
This text describes the format in general terms. Rules, number of clubs and criteria may change each season; check UEFA's official regulations for the current edition.