UEFA Europa League Round of 16 Draw and Format Explained

- Learn about the UEFA Europa League round of 16 draw, fixture dates, and bracket format for the knockout rounds.

UEFA Europa League Round of 16 Draw and Format Explained

The draw for the round of 16 of the UEFA Europa League took place with exciting matchups, fixture dates, and an interesting bracket format.

Clubs in the Round of 16

The top eight clubs advanced directly while the rest competed in the knockout playoff round. Notable teams include Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and AS Roma.

Round of 16 Draw

Key matchups include Viktoria Plzen vs. Lazio, Ajax vs. Eintracht Frankfurt, and Real Sociedad vs. Manchester United. The seeded teams will enjoy the home advantage in the second leg.

Fixture Dates

First legs are scheduled for March 4-5, with second legs on March 11-12. Each club plays on both Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Bracket Format

This season, no draw will determine quarterfinals and semifinals. Teams know their path based on final league positions, with restrictions on facing certain opponents until the final.

Other Rounds

Quarterfinals: April 10 (1st leg) and April 17 (2nd leg). Semifinals: May 1 (1st leg) and May 8 (2nd leg). Final: May 21 at San Mamés Stadium, Bilbao.

Club Placings Importance

League positions shaped the bracket and seeding system. Higher-placed teams like Lazio and Athletic Club have restricted matchups until later stages, ensuring exciting knockout rounds.