The field is set for the UEFA Champions League Playoffs, with 16 teams vying for the final eight spots in the Round of 16 following the conclusion of the League Phase. The draw, taking place friday in Nyon, Switzerland, will determine crucial matchups as clubs continue their pursuit of European football’s most prestigious trophy. This year’s playoff format marks a notable change to the competition’s structure,adding another layer of drama before the knockout stages begin.
Champions League Playoff Draw Set for Friday: Here’s What You Need to Know
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The UEFA Champions League is entering a crucial phase as teams battle for a spot in the knockout stages. Following the conclusion of the League Phase, the field is set for the Playoff draw, which will determine the final eight teams to join the automatic qualifiers in the Round of 16.
With the competition’s new format, 16 teams will compete in the Playoffs for a coveted place in the Round of 16. Here’s a breakdown of how the draw will work.
How Does the Champions League Playoff Draw Work?
The 16 teams – ranked 9th through 24th – will be divided into seeded and unseeded groups for the draw. The top eight teams will be seeded, while the remaining eight will be unseeded. Teams will then be paired, with seeded teams facing unseeded opponents in the following matchups:
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9th and 10th vs. 23rd and 24th
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11th and 12th vs. 21st and 22nd
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13th and 14th vs. 19th and 20th
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15th and 16th vs. 17th and 18th
Which Teams Qualified for the Champions League Playoffs?
A full list of teams advancing to the Playoffs and directly to the Round of 16 is available here.
When and Where Will the Playoff Draw Take Place?
The draw for the Champions League Playoffs will be held on Friday, January 30th, in Nyon, Switzerland. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 12:00 PM Central European Time / 5:00 AM EST / 6:00 AM Colombia, Ecuador, Peru / 8:00 AM Argentina, Chile, Uruguay. Fans can follow the draw live on UEFA.com.
Playoff Schedule and Future Draw Dates
The Playoff ties will be played over two legs. Seeded teams will host the second leg. The first legs are scheduled for February 17th and 18th, 2026, with the return legs taking place on February 24th and 25th.
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Playoffs: February 17/18 and 24/25, 2026
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Round of 16, Quarterfinal, and Semifinal Draw: February 27, 2026
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Round of 16: March 10/11 and 17/18, 2026
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Quarterfinals: April 7/8 and 14/15, 2026
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Semifinals: April 28/29 and May 5/6, 2026
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Final: May 30, 2026
