Champions league new rules 2020

The 2020-21 UEFA Champions League season introduced several new rules and changes to the competition. Here are some of the key changes:

  1. Expanded format: The Champions League has been expanded from 32 teams to 36 teams, with the addition of four teams from the Europa League.
  2. New group stage format: The group stage will feature 12 groups of four teams each, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the knockout phase.
  3. Single-leg ties in the knockout phase: The Champions League will feature single-leg ties in the round of 16, quarterfinals, and semifinals, with the winner advancing to the next round.
  4. Away goals rule abolished: The away goals rule, which was used to determine the winner in two-legged ties, has been abolished. Instead, the team with the most goals in the tie will advance.
  5. Extra time and penalties in the knockout phase: If the score is level after 90 minutes in the knockout phase, the match will go straight to a penalty shootout, with no extra time played.
  6. Video Assistant Referee (VAR): VAR will be used in the Champions League to help referees make decisions on penalties, goals, and direct red cards.
  7. Increased use of technology: The Champions League will also use other forms of technology, such as goal-line technology and offside monitoring, to help referees make accurate decisions.
  8. Changes to the Europa League: The Europa League has been rebranded as the UEFA Europa Conference League, and the top four teams from the Champions League group stage will qualify for the new competition.
  9. Increased prize money: The total prize money for the Champions League has increased to €2.08 billion, with the winner receiving €8.5 million.
  10. Changes to the Champions League final: The Champions League final will be played as a single match, with the winner being crowned the champion. The match will be played at a neutral venue, with the exact location to be determined by UEFA.

These changes are designed to make the Champions League more competitive, exciting, and accessible to fans around the world.