LONDON: The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) is weighing in on the decision to do away with the extra-time rule during the Champions League knockouts.
According to a report from the Guardian, the move is aimed at reducing the number of playing minutes by top clubs. Stakeholders from various parts of the world have voiced their frustration regarding the packed calendar, especially for clubs participating in the Champions League.
In 2022-23, no Champions League ties beyond the round of 16 required extra time, compared to only three in the previous season. Four ties in the 2023-24 Europa League went the distance, down from six the previous season.
This edition of the Champions League underwent a schedule revamp as well, which saw the number of teams participating increase from 32 to 36. All 36 clubs participated in a single league phase, instead of the previous group stage format where 32 participants were divided into eight groups of four. The same format was applied to the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Europa Conference League. Agencies
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