Fri Jan 31 11:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Champions League Knockout Stage Set: Eight Teams Secure Direct Entry to Round of 16

**Nyon, Switzerland** – After four months of intense group stage competition, the Champions League 2024/2025 knockout phase is set. Eight teams have secured their place in the round of 16, while 16 more will battle it out in a two-legged playoff round for the remaining eight spots.

Liverpool, Barcelona, Arsenal, Inter Milan, Atlético Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, Lille, and Aston Villa have earned direct entry to the round of 16 following their impressive group stage performances.

The remaining 16 teams, ranked 9th to 24th in the group stage standings, will compete in a playoff system. A draw on Friday, January 31st in Nyon, Switzerland, will determine the pairings for these crucial two-legged ties. The draw will utilize a seeded system, with teams ranked 9th to 16th seeded against those ranked 17th to 24th.

The playoff matches will be played on February 11/12 and February 18/19. Following the playoffs, the draw for the round of 16, quarter-finals, and semi-finals will take place on February 21st. The entire draw can be followed live on uefa.com.

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