Thu Sep 19 20:07:31 UTC 2024: ## Champions League Kicks Off with New Format and Big Matches

The 2024-25 Champions League season is underway with a revamped format and a host of exciting matchups. The competition now features 36 teams playing eight matches each against eight different opponents, culminating in a single league standings instead of traditional group stages.

**Monaco to Host Barcelona in Opening Match**

The opening match sees AS Monaco host FC Barcelona on Thursday, September 19th at Louis II Stadium. Fans can watch the match live on Paramount+ (with a free trial) or DirecTV Stream (also with a free trial).

**More Teams, More Games, More Money**

The new format aims to provide fans with more exciting matches featuring top teams throughout the season. With more teams and games, there is also a significant increase in prize money, with the overall prize fund reaching €2.5 billion ($2.8 billion). The winner will receive over €160 million ($177 million).

**Standout Matchups on Opening Night**

Opening night is filled with enticing matches, including:

* Real Madrid, the 15-time European champion, will host Stuttgart with Kylian Mbappé leading the attack.
* Bayern Munich will face Dinamo Zagreb aiming to extend their impressive unbeaten streak in group stages.
* A rematch of the 2007 Champions League final will see AC Milan face Liverpool at San Siro.
* Manchester City, fresh off their 2023 Champions League victory, will host Inter Milan, the current Italian champions.
* Girona, backed by the same ownership group as Manchester City, will make their European debut against Paris Saint-Germain.

**A New Era for the Champions League**

The new format promises a more dynamic and engaging Champions League experience. With increased competition, higher stakes, and more money at play, the 2024-25 season is sure to be one of the most exciting yet.

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