The new Champions League format (C1) marks a major shift in the way the tournament is organized, promising groundbreaking changes for clubs. In this article, I want to share my detailed analysis of the new format from Thể Thao VN88 Sports, so you can easily follow and enjoy this top-tier competition.
Introduction to the 2024/25 Champions League Format
If you’re familiar with the old UEFA Champions League structure—8 groups of 4 teams playing round-robin—then the 2024/25 season will bring a slight but significant change. UEFA has officially expanded the number of participating clubs from 32 to 36 teams, which means the competition format will also be completely different.
This new system is designed to be fairer and more competitive. Each team will face a longer journey, playing more matches against a wider variety of opponents. As a result, the tournament will be more exciting and unpredictable than ever.
Key Differences in the New Champions League Format
When I researched the new format, I realized this is a major turning point for the competition. Here are the key changes you need to know:
Expansion of the Tournament
According to VN88, the first major difference is the tournament’s scale. Previously, the Champions League had 32 teams split into 8 groups of 4. Now, the number has increased to 36 teams.
Instead of the group stage system, the new season will use a Swiss-style league format. Each team will play 10 matches against different opponents (not all 35), with 5 home games and 5 away games.
Ten Matches – 5 at Home and 5 Away
Unlike the old 6-match group stage, each club will now play 10 games. This helps balance fixtures and difficulty levels since teams face a wider range of opponents.
Seeding and Match Rules
Under the new system, clubs will be divided into 4 seeding pots. This prevents the strongest teams from meeting too early, making the draw more competitive and fair.
This approach ensures that every club will face at least a few elite opponents, while underdogs will still have chances to create surprises.
Changes in Qualification and Participation Slots
Another major difference lies in qualification rules. UEFA has made adjustments to create more opportunities while also raising challenges:
Four Additional Group Stage Spots
UEFA has added 4 extra places, increasing the total from 32 to 36. This opens the door for more clubs, especially those with strong domestic performances but outside the top 4 of their leagues.
Allocation of Additional Spots
- Spot 1: Awarded to the league ranked 5th in UEFA’s coefficient ranking (that league will now send 4 teams instead of 3).
- Spot 2: Given to a domestic league champion who did not earn direct entry, based on UEFA rankings.
- Spots 3 & 4: Reserved for clubs with outstanding European performances (Champions League, Europa League, or Conference League) but who did not qualify directly via their domestic leagues. These clubs go straight into the group stage instead of the qualifiers.
Qualification to the Round of 16 and Play-Offs
The knockout stage format has also changed:
- The top 8 teams in the league table advance directly to the Round of 16.
- Teams ranked 9th to 24th will enter a play-off round to fight for the remaining 8 spots.
In this play-off, teams ranked 9–16 face those ranked 17–24 in two-legged ties. The 8 winners move on to meet the top 8 in the Round of 16.
- Losers of the play-off drop down to the Europa League.
- Teams ranked 25th and below are eliminated entirely.
Conclusion
After studying the new Champions League format in detail, I can confidently say it represents a VN88 revolution in European football. With expanded participation, a new match structure, and more competitive balance, the tournament promises even greater drama and excitement.
If you’re a true fan of the Champions League, you won’t want to miss this season. Follow the journey closely to experience the full thrill of Europe’s premier football competition under its new format.
