UEFA Europa League Knockout Round Set as Teams Battle for Glory

MONACO, March 6, 2025 — The UEFA Europa League’s revamped format is in full swing as it navigates through the 2024-25 season’s knockout round. The transition from a group stage to a single league phase featuring 36 teams has simplified what many initially thought to be a complex setup.

The league phase, which replaced the traditional group stage, began with 36 teams before narrowing down to 24. From there, eight teams automatically advanced to the round of 16 while the remaining 16 teams engaged in playoffs to solidify their spots. Fast forward to now, and only 16 teams remain in the competition.

After a tense series of matches, Premier League giants Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur earned byes past the first knockout round, setting the stage for a possible face-off if both teams prevail in their quarterfinal matches.

To advance, Manchester United will need to overcome Real Sociedad, while Tottenham faces AZ Alkmaar. The possibility of an all-Serie A quarterfinal matchup is also on the table, contingent upon Athletic Bilbao defeating Roma and Lazio taking down Viktoria Plzen.

Scores from the first legs highlighted the intense competition:

• AZ Alkmaar 1-0 Tottenham
• Real Sociedad 1-1 Manchester United
• Fenerbahce 1-3 Rangers
• FCSB 1-3 Lyon
• Ajax 1-2 Eintracht Frankfurt
• Viktoria Plzen 1-2 Lazio
• Roma 2-1 Athletic Bilbao
• Bodo/Glimt 3-0 Olympiakos

The quarterfinal draw will take place on Friday at 7 a.m. ET, providing clarity on the upcoming knockout matches where fan-favorite matchups could result in exhilarating clashes.

Additionally, the Europa League and Champions League draws have highlighted the competitive nature of club soccer across Europe, promising thrilling fixtures through the spring. The Champions League final is set for May 21, 2025, at San Mames Stadium in Bilbao.

The bracket for the knockout round is almost set, with each team under pressure to maintain their form as the stakes rise. This competition not only emphasizes European dominance but also showcases emerging teams vying for recognition on a larger stage.

The upcoming knockout games are pivotal, with countless storylines developing as teams push toward securing silverware and advancing further into the tournament.