UEFA Champions League play-offs begin: 19/20 & 26/27 August
The UCL play-off round starts with first legs on 19–20 August and second legs on 26–27 August to decide the final seven entrants.
UEFA’s format explainer sets the stakes under the new league-phase system.
Seeded vs unseeded dynamics and away-leg risk management will shape tie states.
“First legs played on 19/20 August and the deciders on 26/27 August.”
Calendar: winners join 29 qualifiers before the 28 August draw in Monaco.
