Champions League Last-16 Draw: Schedule, Rules, and Key Matchups Explained

The excitement of the Champions League continues as the last-16 draw approaches. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming fixtures, updated rules, and potential key matchups.

Date and Time of the Draw

The Champions League last-16 draw will take place on Friday, 21 February at 11:00 GMT. Fans can watch the draw live on the BBC Sport website and app, with comprehensive live text coverage available.

Updated Format and Rules

This year, the Champions League has seen an expansion in games, increasing from 125 to 189, with the final scheduled in Munich on 31 May. Teams are seeded based on their performance in the league phase, ensuring top performers are spread across the draw.

• Seeding: Teams that finished first to eighth in the league phase will face the teams that finished ninth to sixteenth.
• Country Matchups: Teams from the same country can meet at any stage of the competition.
• Away Goals Rule: UEFA has abolished the away goals rule starting from the 2021-22 season, citing it as no longer appropriate to hold extra weight.

Potential Key Matchups

• Liverpool: Could face either Paris St-Germain or Benfica.
• Arsenal: Might play against Feyenoord or PSV.
• Aston Villa: Potential opponents include Club Brugge or Borussia Dortmund.

Coefficient and Extra Champions League Spot

UEFA will reward two leagues with an extra spot in next season’s Champions League based on their performance in European competitions this season. Currently, the Premier League is leading the race, with six of its seven teams advancing to the last-16 across all three UEFA competitions.

Latest Champions League Standings

For the most up-to-date information, including scores and fixtures, visit the BBC Sport website. Highlights of every Champions League game are available on BBC iPlayer from 22:00 each matchday, with a Champions League Match of the Day airing on BBC One.

Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as the Champions League progresses!