Bayern Munich beat Slovan Bratislava 3-1 in Matchday 8 of the Champions League yesterday, securing a place in the playoffs. The German side finished 12th in the

The UEFA Champions League's first-ever league phase came to a dramatic close on Wednesday, setting up for an equally entertaining knockout stage that begins in two weeks' time. The introduction of the new format means the Champions League will introduce a new phase of competition in February when 16 teams will take part in the knockout round playoffs.

Here's the state of play after the conclusion of the first stage of the Champions League: Liverpool, Barcelona, Arsenal, Inter Milan, Atletico Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, Lille, Aston Villa. Monaco or Brest vs. Paris Saint-Germain or Benfica (for the right to play Liverpool or Barcelona)

Bayern at least ensured they will be seeded in Friday's draw after beating Slovan Bratislava 3-1 on Wednesday, but their reward will be either City or Celtic

Celtic fans could be banned from attending their blockbuster Champions League tie against European giants Real Madrid or Bayern Munich after letting off fireworks during the defeat at Aston Villa on Wednesday.

Barcelona's strong performance in the first-ever UEFA Champions League 'league phase' puts them in good standing to regain the title.

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How do you follow all 18 games on 'Matchday Mayhem'? Come up with a running order and watch a bit of every one in turn, of course

PSV beat Liverpool on a night to rememberEINDHOVEN, NETHERLANDS – JANUARY 29: Johan Bakayoko of PSV Eindhoven celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25

It is only if they reach the semi-finals that the six-time European champions could face some of the pre-tournament favourites, with Inter Milan, Bayern Munich and Manchester City among the sides who could be lying in wait.

The January transfer window rarely sees blockbuster deals in the Bundesliga, but in 2025, Bayern and Leverkusen are looking to break with tradition.