European football delivered a packed and eventful week, both on and off the pitch. Softfootball has gathered five major developments that defined the period between January 26 and February 1 as UEFA competitions reached crucial milestones.
Champions League and Europa League League Phase Concludes
Matchday 8 brought the league phase of both the UEFA Champions League and Europa League to an end. A total of 36 matches were played across two action-filled nights, with 24 teams securing qualification to the knockout stages across both competitions.
Notable results included Chelsea defeating Napoli to reach the last 16, Arsenal finishing unbeaten after a 3–2 win over Kairat, Manchester City progressing thanks to goals from Haaland and Cherki, and Liverpool thrashing Qarabag 6–0 at Anfield.
Knockout Round Play-Off Draws Held in Nyon
UEFA conducted the knockout round play-off draws for both the Champions League and Europa League in Nyon. The 16 two-legged ties are scheduled to be played between February 17–19 and February 24–26, setting the stage for the next phase of European competition.
Launch of ‘OWN IT’ Women’s Health Series
UEFA launched OWN IT, a new video series focused on women’s health in football. The initiative addresses key topics such as menstrual health, ACL injury prevention, and motherhood, highlighting growing attention to player wellbeing in the women’s game.
UEFA Sustainability Dialogue Debuts
UEFA hosted leading global brands at its inaugural Sustainability Dialogue. The two-day event focused on accelerating sustainability across European football and promoting collaboration to deliver measurable environmental and social outcomes.
UEFA and CONCACAF Strengthen Cooperation
Representatives from UEFA and CONCACAF came together in Nyon for a workshop on club licensing. The session allowed eight national associations to exchange expertise, experiences, and best practices in football governance.
With the group stage of the Champions League and Europa League now complete, attention shifts to the upcoming knockout rounds, as fans across Europe await the next chapter of continental football.
