FOOTBALL – The Champions League’s group stage has almost come to an end. Fifteen of the 16 sides in the knockout rounds are known, with just Atalanta and Villarreal’s postponed fixture is remaining to decide the last team to make it through the group stage.
Apart from this game, which was postponed due to weather conditions, the final games have been played in the Champions League for the places in the final 16. Atalanta and Villarreal’s postponed fixture will decide the last team to make it through the group stage.
The final stages
The teams who have qualified for the Champions League last 16 are Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Manchester City, Liverpool, Ajax, Bayern Munich, Manchester United, Lille, Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain, Sporting CP, Inter, Benfica, RB Salzburg, and Chelsea.
As mentioned, the winner from Villarreal and Atalanta will also progress after their game on Thursday.
Champions League last 16 draw
The draw for the final 16 in the Champions League will take place on Monday, December 13. It will be held in Nyon, Switzerland, and will begin at midday Spanish time (11.00 am in the UK).
Format for the Champions League last 16
The teams are divided into two pots. This is made up of group winners and runners-up. Those in pot one face those in pot two.
Furthermore, it is not possible for teams to face others from the same country in the last 16. Nor can they play against. other teams previously in their group.
The pots are as follows;
- Pot one: Ajax, Bayern, Liverpool, Man City, Man United, Real Madrid, Juventus, Lille.
- Pot two: PSG, Sporting, Atletico, Inter, Chelsea, Villarreal/Atalanta, Benfica, Salzburg.
Next games
The first leg of the Champions League last 16 will be played on February 15, 16, 22, and 23. Then, the second legs will be held on March 8, 9, 15, and 16.
Away goals
Away goals will no longer be used as a tiebreaker in the Champions League this season. In the event of an aggregate draw after 180 minutes, games will go to extra time and penalties.
