Champions League 2024/25: New Format & TV Guide
The UEFA Champions League is back, and with it comes a fresh new format and a whole lot of exciting football. The 2024/25 season marks a significant shift in the tournament's structure, promising more competitive matches and increased opportunities for smaller clubs. Here's everything you need to know about the new format and how to catch all the action on TV.
The New Champions League Format
The most notable change is the expansion of the group stage from 32 teams to 36 teams. This expanded field will be divided into four leagues of nine teams each. Within their respective leagues, teams will play eight matches, four at home and four away, against all the other teams in their league.
Here's how it works:
- The Top Eight: The top eight teams in each league will qualify for the Round of 16. This means a total of 32 teams will advance to the knockout stages.
- The Ninth Place: The ninth-placed team in each league will be given a second chance. They'll compete in play-offs against the eight best third-placed teams from the Europa League. The winners of these play-offs will join the Round of 16.
This new system aims to increase the number of games and ensure more teams get a chance to compete for the prestigious trophy.
TV Guide for the Champions League
With the new format comes a revamped TV schedule. Here's a breakdown of the key broadcasters in major regions:
Europe:
- BT Sport (UK)
- Sky Sports (UK)
- DAZN (Germany, Italy, Spain)
- Canal+ (France)
North America:
- CBS Sports Network (USA)
- Paramount+ (USA)
- DAZN (Canada)
South America:
- ESPN (Brazil)
- Star+ (Latin America)
Asia:
- beIN Sports (Middle East and North Africa)
- Fox Sports (Australia)
- Sony Pictures Networks India (India)
Other Regions:
- SuperSport (Africa)
- Sky Sports (New Zealand)
How to Watch Online:
Many broadcasters offer streaming services for live and on-demand matches. You can access these through apps on various devices or by subscribing to their online platforms. Remember to check with your local provider for specific streaming options and availability.
Key Dates for the 2024/25 Season
- Group Stage Draw: August 2024
- Group Stage Begins: September 2024
- Group Stage Ends: December 2024
- Round of 16: February - March 2025
- Quarterfinals: April 2025
- Semifinals: May 2025
- Final: June 2025
Conclusion
The 2024/25 Champions League promises a thrilling season with its new format and expanded field. With more matches and exciting storylines, the battle for European supremacy will be more intense than ever. Be sure to grab your TV guide and get ready for a season of top-class football action.