Champions League Knockout Round: Format, Fixtures, and Draw Details

- Get insights into the new-look Champions League knockout playoff round and how it impacts the round of 16.

Champions League Knockout Round Breakdown

After the playoff round draw, only teams from positions nine to 24 will compete in the knockout playoff round. The top eight teams are already in the round of 16. No country protection exists, allowing clubs from the same country to play each other. The knockout playoff round fixtures include exciting matchups like Brest vs. Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus vs. PSV Eindhoven.

Important Dates and Draw Information

First legs of the knockout playoff round will take place on Feb. 11-12, with second legs scheduled for Feb. 18-19. The round of 16 draw is set for Feb. 21. Clubs like Liverpool and Barcelona, finishing in the top eight, await their potential opponents in the next stage.

Bracket and Home Advantage

The bracket for the knockout playoff round is now set, with clubs knowing their potential paths to the final. The draw for quarterfinals and semifinals' home advantage will follow the round of 16 draw. January signings can participate in the Champions League, subject to squad limitations. The importance of league phase positions is evident in the bracket setup and potential matchups.