The revamped and expanded 2024/25 Champions League has delivered thrilling action in its new 36-team league phase. As Matchday 8 approaches, the race for knockout stage spots intensifies. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the teams that have qualified for the knockout stages, those vying for positions, and those eliminated from the competition.
Teams Qualified for the Last 16
Team
Status
Key Highlights
Liverpool
Guaranteed Last 16
Only team with a perfect record (7 wins). Defeated Real Madrid, Milan, and RB Leipzig with ease.
Barcelona
Guaranteed Last 16
Six consecutive wins after an opening loss to Monaco. Key victory: 4-1 vs. Bayern Munich.
Teams Guaranteed Knockout Stage (Last 16 or Play-Offs)
Team
Current Status
Notes
Arsenal
Likely Last 16
A point against Girona will confirm a top-eight finish.
Atalanta
Likely Last 16
Strong performances; currently in the top eight.
Atletico Madrid
Likely Last 16
Positioned well in the standings; consistent performances.
Bayer Leverkusen
Likely Last 16
Impressive displays; currently in the top eight.
Bayern Munich
Play-Off Likely
Guaranteed knockout stage but need external results for direct Last 16 qualification.
Borussia Dortmund
Play-Off Likely
Similar situation to Bayern; require results elsewhere to secure a top-eight spot.
Brest
Play-Off Likely
Overachievers in their debut campaign; guaranteed knockout stage.
Celtic
Play-Off Likely
First knockout stage appearance since 2012/13; guaranteed play-off berth.
Reigning champions need external help for direct Last 16 entry.
Aston Villa
Play-Off Likely
Impressive return to the Champions League; just outside the top eight.
Eliminated Teams
Team
Reason for Elimination
Bologna
Struggled to compete during their Champions League debut.
Girona
Failed to replicate domestic form on the European stage.
RB Leipzig
Eliminated despite a strong squad; tough group matches against top-tier opponents.
Red Star Belgrade
Regular competitors but underperformed in this campaign.
Salzburg
Disappointing campaign for the Austrian side.
Slovan Bratislava
Failed to earn a single point in their group stage matches.
Sparta Prague
Eliminated after a string of underwhelming performances.
Sturm Graz
Couldn’t keep up with the competition in their group.
Young Boys
No wins in the league phase; face Red Star in their final match to salvage some pride.
Teams Facing Crucial Final Matchday
Team
Scenario
Manchester City
Must defeat Club Brugge to secure a play-off spot.
Paris Saint-Germain
Need to finish in the top 24 to avoid elimination.
Summary
The new Champions League format has introduced intense competition, with few teams securing their knockout stage spots early. Liverpool and Barcelona stand out as the only teams guaranteed a Last 16 berth, while others like Arsenal, Inter, and Atalanta are close to joining them. Meanwhile, surprises such as Manchester City’s struggles and Brest’s overachievement have added to the drama.
The final Matchday promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the league phase, with high stakes for several European giants.
