UEFA Europa League Draw: Date, Format, and Key Information
Following the conclusion of the UEFA Europa League group stage, the playoff round draw for the round of 16 will take place. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming draw and the competition format:
Europa League Playoff Draw Date
The Europa League playoff draw is scheduled for Friday, January 31st at 13:15 CET in Nyon, Switzerland.
Playoff Round Format
The playoff round will feature 16 teams that finished between 9th and 24th place in the group stage rankings. The draw will determine the matchups, with the following structure:
- 9th and 10th-ranked teams will face 23rd and 24th-ranked teams
- 11th and 12th-ranked teams will face 21st and 22nd-ranked teams
- 13th and 14th-ranked teams will face 19th and 20th-ranked teams
- 15th and 16th-ranked teams will face 17th and 18th-ranked teams
Key Changes for the 2024/25 Season
- Teams from the same national association can now face each other in the playoff round
- Clubs that met in the group stage can be drawn against each other in the playoffs
- The second leg will always be played at the home of the higher-ranked team
Playoff Round Dates
The playoff matches will be held in February 2025:
- First leg: February 13, 2025
- Second leg: February 20, 2025
Round of 16 Draw
The draw for the round of 16, as well as the subsequent stages (quarter-finals and semi-finals), will take place on February 21, 2025. This draw will determine the entire bracket for the remainder of the competition.
The Europa League continues to evolve, offering exciting matchups and new possibilities for clubs across Europe as they compete for continental glory.