Starting this year, a new system has been introduced in the UEFA Champions League, which has significantly changed the usual format of the competition that has existed for many years. Whereas previously the group stage consisted of 32 teams divided into eight groups, it has now been replaced by the more complex and dynamic “Swiss system”, which covers 36 teams at once.
New rules for the soccer tournament
Under the new rules, each team will play eight matches against different opponents selected at random. Teams will be able to meet both the strongest clubs and lesser-known but ambitious teams. The main purpose of the changes is to increase the number of matches between top clubs, which is expected to increase fan interest and television ratings for the tournament.
This format reduces the likelihood of early favorites departing, which also increases the attractiveness of the tournament for spectators. After all matches of the first stage are completed, the teams will be ranked according to the number of points scored. The top eight teams will directly qualify for the 1/8 finals, allowing them to avoid additional games.
However, clubs ranked 9 through 24 will have to fight for the remaining eight playoff spots through an additional round of knockout matches. This innovation, according to the organizers, should not only increase the level of competition, but also add additional intrigue to the final stages of the tournament.
Public opinion on the matter
Opinions on the new format are divided, with some welcoming the changes as a step forward that will make the tournament even more exciting and unpredictable, while others are concerned that the new format could have a negative impact on the traditional values of the Champions League that have been established over decades.
