.jpg)
The UEFA Champions League's expanded format for the 2024-25 season has created unprecedented drama as the league phase approaches its final round, with several football giants facing potential early exits or missing crucial top-eight finishes.
In a stunning turn of events, defending champions Manchester City find themselves on the brink of elimination following a 4-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. The loss has not only jeopardized City's campaign but has also breathed new life into PSG's hopes of avoiding another European disappointment. The situation has become particularly intriguing as traditional powerhouses Bayern Munich and Real Madrid appear set to miss automatic qualification for the last 16.
Meanwhile, AC Milan has emerged as a surprise contender for direct advancement, while Liverpool maintains their perfect record thus far. However, the Reds could still be overtaken by Barcelona, who recently orchestrated a remarkable comeback victory against Benfica, showcasing the unpredictable nature of this season's competition.
In the lower tiers of the tournament, Dinamo Zagreb's struggles continued with a disappointing 3-0 loss to Arsenal. Under new coach Fabio Cannavaro, the Croatian side faces an uphill battle in their crucial final match against AC Milan at the Stadion Maksimir, where they have yet to secure a home victory in this season's campaign.
Shakhtar Donetsk has kept their hopes alive with a crucial 2-0 victory over Brest, with Kevin and Giorgi Sudakov finding the net. However, their path to advancement requires a challenging away victory against Borussia Dortmund at the intimidating Signal Iduna Park, despite BVB's current crisis.
One of the tournament's most compelling narratives has been Club Brugge's unexpected success. The Belgian side secured a play-off spot with an impressive draw against Juventus under Nicky Hayen's leadership, defying early-season expectations. Their upcoming match against Manchester City at the Etihad now comes with considerably less pressure, potentially making them a dangerous opponent in the knockout stages.
Arsenal has virtually secured their position in the top eight following a commanding victory over Dinamo Zagreb. With 16 points and a robust +12 goal difference, Mikel Arteta's squad appears poised for advancement regardless of their final match result against Girona. However, questions about their trophy-winning capabilities and the absence of a true striker persist, with much depending on Bukayo Saka's return to full fitness.
This dramatic conclusion to the league phase perfectly exemplifies the increased complexity and excitement brought by the Champions League's expanded format, setting the stage for a thrilling knockout round where traditional hierarchies appear more vulnerable than ever.
