The 2024/25 Champions League might see more thrilling matches, but it risks diminishing the significance of major clashes.
The league phase draw revealed potential matchups like Real Madrid vs. Dortmund, Liverpool, Man City vs. Inter Milan, and Bayern vs. PSG, among others. UEFA’s new AI-driven draw ensures that all teams face a balanced schedule, with top seeds no longer having an easy path compared to lower seeds. The format includes 8 group games instead of 6, offering more opportunities for goals.
However, the increased number of matches lowers the risk of elimination. The new format features 144 group-stage games, with only 12 teams eliminated, compared to 96 games and 16 eliminations previously.
Predictions suggest that teams will need 14-15 points to finish in the Top 8 for the knockout stage and 8-9 points to secure a play-off spot. This means many teams might secure progression early on. With 8 league phase matches, some high-profile games might lose their edge.
While UEFA will showcase exciting fixtures, some matches, especially those competing for 4th and 5th places, might lack importance. The main motivation for teams to perform might be the UEFA prize money.