There haven’t been many disruptive changes to the Champions League as big as last season’s adaptation. The 2024-25 competition completely altered the tried-and-tested structure, replacing the group stage with a league phase.
The competition this season has thrown up some memorable moments and served up some worthy finalists. But is it an improvement on the old format?
2024-25 Champions League Has Been Thrilling
Looking back at the 2024-25 competition, there have been some thrilling ties. PSG and Inter Milan made it to the final, with the Champions League odds favouring the French side to win in normal time at 6/5. According to the PSG vs Inter odds, the Ligue 1 giants were also tipped to lift the trophy at 6/10.
Inter went into many of their matches as underdogs, though, and threw up some surprise results in the knockout phases that shocked bookies. Indeed, the semi-final second leg between Barcelona and Inter has already been described as one of the best matches in the competition’s history. However, this was not a direct result of the tournament’s new format. Indeed, there weren’t any matches of that calibre during the league phase.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of the New System?
Even though the competition has only been running for one season in its new format, there are already some clear advantages to the league phase. One of the most notable is the fact that it creates an opportunity for more high-stakes games between the best teams in the world. Each team faces a different side in their eight league matches, meaning fans get to see their team face a range of world class players.
This format is much better for broadcasters, as they are able to advertise more clashes between huge names in the early phases. This will lead to much higher global viewership over time, along with more commercial opportunities for advertisers. It’s also great from the perspective of the clubs involved, as more of them get a real shot at progressing.
There are, however, a few disadvantages that are glaringly obvious. For example, many fans have found the new structure confusing. And are unsure about how the rankings and playoff qualifications work. There’s also the argument that it’s unfair, as some teams face easier routes to the latter games than others.
What Have Fans Said About the Format?
As tends to be the case in football, fans haven’t been that open to change. It’s hard to adapt to a new style of competition, but it could be worth sticking it out and learning to love it. The fact that every team that enters gets to play at least eight teams rather than three is a huge bonus.
Fans of the mid-level clubs have been more open to the new format, as it arguably gives them a better chance of getting through than if they were stuck in a four-team group with two powerhouses.
In the grand scheme of things, it’s likely that people will appreciate this adaptation to the Champions League format. There are loads of excellent benefits to it, and it’s great to have extra games.