The 2024-25 UEFA Champions League group stage introduces a significant change.
The new format for the Champions League has been confirmed, the schedules have been revealed, and the odds provide multiple opportunities for value.
Don’t forget to check out our Soccer Vegas Odds page, which provides everything you need to know about betting Champions League futures.
It now consists of a single 36-team league stage, with each team playing eight different teams (four at home and four away).
The top eight teams will advance directly to the Round of 16, while teams finishing from ninth to 24th will compete in the knockout-round playoffs.
From there, eight more teams will emerge to complete the final 16, leading to a straight knockout format as in previous years.
Qualifying Rounds
Stage Matches
Knockout Stage
Man City | +260 | +200 | +250 |
Real Madrid | +325 | +350 | +325 |
Arsenal | +800 | +800 | +800 |
Bayern Munich | +1200 | +1200 | +1200 |
Barcelona | +1600 | +1200 | +1100 |
Liverpool | +1200 | +1400 | +1400 |
PSG | +2200 | +2000 | +1800 |
Inter Milan | +1800 | +2500 | +2000 |
Atletico Madrid | +2500 | +2500 | +2500 |
Bayer Leverkusen | +2500 | +2500 | +2800 |
Borussia Dortmund | +5000 | +2500 | +3500 |
Juventus | +4000 | +4000 | +5000 |
AC Milan | +6600 | +4000 | +5000 |
Atalanta | +6600 | +5000 | +6500 |
Aston Villa | +6600 | +6600 | +6500 |
Despite not clinching the Champions League title last season, Manchester City demonstrated their dominance by clinching the Premier League title from Arsenal.
Their formidable performance under Pep Guardiola’s leadership and the team’s burning desire to prove themselves following various controversies make them a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season.
It’s worth noting that Manchester City are favored over last season’s champions, who have recently acquired one of the world’s top players.
Following their 15th Champions League victory last season, Real Madrid bolstered their star-studded lineup by adding superstar Kylian Mbappe in a record-breaking transfer deal.
Despite the team’s inconsistent performance, with eight points from four matches, Los Blancos always remain a formidable force in European competitions, giving hope to their fans.
Their upcoming matches against strong opponents promise to be challenging.
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Although they currently have the third-best odds, Arsenal is expected to field a very similar and possibly even stronger squad in the upcoming tournament.
Despite being eliminated by Bayern Munich in last year’s quarterfinals, the young Arsenal team has gained valuable experience.
Several key players had never advanced so far in the continental tournament before, but they have since gained additional experience from this year’s Euro and Copa America competitions.
If they can challenge Manchester City for the EPL title, they have a good chance of making a strong showing in Europe.
The Reds will return to the tournament after a year-long absence and will face AC Milan at the San Siro on Tuesday, September 17.
Liverpool faces a challenging draw, with matches against defending champions Real Madrid and last season’s Bundesliga invincibles Bayer Leverkusen both coming to Anfield.
Arne Slot has finalized his Champions League squad for the opening league phase and is eager for success in his first season at Merseyside.
Atletico Madrid, known for its success in European competition, is entering the new campaign with high expectations following key transfer market signings.
With the additions of Julian Alvarez, Conor Gallagher, Alexander Sorloth, and Robin Le Normand, the team’s lineup is even more formidable, complementing its existing potential.
Manager Diego Simeone has a proven track record of maximizing his players’ performance.
In addition, Atletico’s draw in the league phase appears favorable, with the away match against PSG presenting the toughest challenge.
While home matches against Leipzig and Leverkusen will provide stern tests, the team’s overall schedule looks promising for Los Colchoneros.
You’ll check back here regularly to stay updated on the news.
Summary
Tony is a pro sports journalist who dedicates most of his free time to watching the latest matches and games on TV. Tony enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and basketball when he's not participating in sports-related activities or seeing his friends. In addition to being a sports expert, Tony has extensive knowledge of finances and accounting. He leverages this expertise to provide insightful betting analysis for all sports, identifying value based on overlooked factors.
Education
Tony graduated with honors from NM State University, earning a BA in Mass Communications and Journalism. During his time at the university, he actively participated in organizing Study Abroad Fairs and was a dedicated member of the College Democrats.
Tony also volunteered at the student-run radio station (KRUX), contributing to the success of its annual fundraising event, KRUXFest.
Furthermore, he served as a volunteer cameraman for the student-run news station (KRWG22) twice a week and held the position of sports editor for the student newspaper.
Apart from his academic and extracurricular accomplishments, Tony also enjoyed participating in student-run intramurals, playing on both basketball and flag football teams.
Professional Achievements
New Mexico Press Association Scholarship
Runner-Up, Page Design, Associated College Press/ College Media Advisers
Runner-Up, Top College Newspaper Columnist, Associated College Press/ College Media Advisers
VMC Employee of the Month