Fifteen teams have secured their places in the UEFA Europa League knockout phase, marking the halfway point of the league phase as many clubs eye the coveted trophy. Among these teams, league phase leaders Lazio have already confirmed their spot in the round of 16.
The latest fixtures from Matchday 7 saw Tottenham and FCSB among eight clubs clinching either direct entry to the round of 16 or participation in the knockout phase play-offs. Other notable teams including AZ Alkmaar, Bodø/Glimt, Olympiacos, Rangers, Union SG, and Viktoria Plzeň are also assured of at least two more games in the tournament beyond the current league phase.
Previously, Matchday 6 saw seven teams including Anderlecht, Athletic Club, Eintracht Frankfurt, Galatasaray, Lazio, Lyon, and Manchester United securing their places, solidifying their strategies and ambitions for the upcoming knockout matches. This updated format for the 2024/25 season has created new dynamics, with teams grasping the opportunity to advance and showcase their talents.
For this season, the top eight teams overall will move directly to the round of 16. Meanwhile, teams finishing from ninth to 24th place will engage in knockout phase play-offs, with the victors from these encounters proceeding to the last 16.
The final matchday of the league phase will conclude on January 30, 2025, with much anticipation building around the outcomes. The knockout phase play-offs are scheduled for February 13 and 20, followed by the round of 16 matches on March 6 and 13—increasing the excitement among fans across Europe.
The quarter-finals are set for April 10 and 17, with the semi-finals to follow on May 1 and 8, before culminating in the final on May 21. With such tightly contested matches on the horizon, the knockout phase promises to be thrilling.
Standings are currently provisional until the conclusion and validation of all league phase matches by UEFA, with confirmations of qualification still pending until the review is complete. Yet, as the season progresses, clubs will continue to hustle for their spot and to represent their cities with pride.
The Europa League remains not only about competition but also about the passion and camaraderie among fans, players, and clubs aiming for glory on the continental stage. With historic clubs making their mark and new stories waiting to be written, the excitement surrounding this knockout phase is palpable.