Europa League: The Battle for the Top 8

The new-look 36-team Europa League is nearing its conclusion, and the race for the top eight is heating up. Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Rangers are all in contention, but only two of them will advance directly to the round of 16. The other will have to settle for a playoff spot.

Here's a look at what each team needs to do to secure a place in the knockout rounds:

Manchester United

The Red Devils are currently in fourth place with 15 points, but they have a game in hand over their rivals. A win against FCSB would all but guarantee their place in the top eight, but a draw could also be enough depending on the results of other teams. If United lose, they could still qualify if several other results go their way.

Tottenham Hotspur

Spurs are in sixth place with 14 points, but they have a chance to move up to second with a win against Elfsborg. A draw would also keep them in contention, but a loss could see them drop out of the top eight. Tottenham will need to score plenty of goals to have a chance of qualifying, as their goal difference is currently only +5.

Rangers

The Gers are in 13th place with 11 points, but they still have a chance of qualifying for the knockout rounds. A win against Union St.-Gilloise would all but guarantee their place, but a draw or loss could see them miss out. Rangers will need to hope that several other teams slip up if they are to have any chance of qualifying.

The final round of games will take place on Thursday, January 30, with all 18 matches kicking off at the same time. The draw for the knockout rounds will take place on Friday, January 31, with the first legs of the playoffs scheduled for February 13 and the second legs on February 20. The round of 16 draw will take place on Friday, February 21, with the first legs scheduled for March 6 and the second legs on March 13.