The Digest:
The UEFA Champions League league phase kicks off this week with 36 teams, including heavyweights like PSG, Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Liverpool- competing in a reformed format designed to intensify competition and drama. Defending champions Paris Saint-Germain begin their title defense against a backdrop of high expectations and formidable challengers.
Key Points:
- The top eight teams automatically qualify for the Round of 16; teams ranked 9th–24th enter a playoff round.
- PSG won last season’s title despite finishing 15th in the league phase, highlighting the unpredictability of the format.
- Key Matchday 1 fixtures: PSG vs Atalanta, Bayern vs Chelsea, Athletic Club vs Arsenal, and Liverpool vs Atlético Madrid.
- Expert analysis suggests Liverpool, Barcelona, Napoli, Juventus, PSG, Real Madrid, and Bayern are top contenders.
- The league phase spans three days (Tuesday–Thursday), resulting in increased viewership and engagement.
- PSG’s 5–0 victory over Inter Milan in last year’s final marked their first Champions League triumph.
- The new format eliminates the Europa League drop-down for bottom teams, raising the stakes for every match.
Sources: UEFA
