Champions League Draw: Bayern Munich Strikes Gold! | sportschau.de

The Champions League draw has everyone talking! Bayern Munich caught a break, avoiding a clash with Manchester City and drawing Celtic instead. Borussia Dortmund will battle it out with Sporting Lisbon. Get ready for some thrilling matches!

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll find in this article:

  • Bayern’s Lucky Draw: Celtic instead of Man City!
  • Dortmund’s Challenge: Facing Sporting Lisbon.
  • Key Dates: When do the games kick off?
  • What’s Next?: Potential opponents in later rounds.

Bayern’s Path to Glory: Celtic Awaits!

Bayern Munich is hungry for Champions League glory, and the draw has been kind. Instead of a heavyweight showdown with Manchester City, they’ll face Celtic in the playoff round. Manager Vincent Kompany will face Celtic. Bayern’s sporting director, Max Eberl, emphasized the team’s focus on reaching the round of 16, acknowledging Celtic’s passion and fighting spirit.

Dortmund’s Test: Sporting Lisbon in Their Sights

Borussia Dortmund also learned their fate, drawing Sporting Lisbon. BVB sporting director Sebastian Kehl anticipates a closely contested battle, expressing confidence in his team’s ability to advance, especially with the return leg at home.

Champions League Playoff Overview

Here’s a quick look at all the playoff matchups:

  • FC Brugge vs. Atalanta Bergamo
  • Sporting Lisbon vs. Borussia Dortmund
  • Manchester City vs. Real Madrid
  • Celtic Glasgow vs. FC Bayern Munich
  • Juventus Turin vs. PSV Eindhoven
  • Feyenoord Rotterdam vs. AC Milan
  • Stade Brest vs. Paris St. Germain
  • AS Monaco vs. Benfica Lisbon

What’s Next for Leverkusen?

Bayer Leverkusen, already qualified for the round of 16, watched the draw with interest. They’ll potentially face one of the top teams from the Bayern quartet: Manchester City, Real Madrid, or Celtic.

Potential Opponents in Round of 16

Dortmund, if they advance, could face Aston Villa or OSC Lille in the round of 16. The draw on February 21st will determine the matchups for the teams that finished in the top eight.

Key Dates for Your Calendar

Mark your calendars for these important dates:

  • Playoffs: February 11/12 and February 18/19
  • Round of 16: March 4/5 and March 11/12
  • Quarterfinals: April 8/9 and April 15/16
  • Semifinals: April 29/30 and May 6/7
  • Final in Munich: May 31

The New Champions League Format: What’s the Deal?

The Champions League underwent a revamp for the 2024/25 season, aiming to increase excitement and reduce the number of meaningless matches. While the new format has its merits, it also introduces new challenges.

The new format ensures that almost every match is crucial, raising the stakes and delivering thrilling moments. The knockout stage remains a battleground for Europe’s elite, offering unforgettable moments and fierce rivalries.

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