Europa League Reaches Climax with Final League Phase Fixtures
FRANKFURT, 29 January 2026 – The UEFA Europa League’s inaugural league phase concludes tonight with all 18 matches kicking off simultaneously at 20:00 CET. With only Lyon and Aston Villa having secured direct passage to the round of 16, a frantic scramble awaits eleven teams battling for the five remaining automatic qualification spots.
High-Stakes Finale for German and British Clubs
The revamped format, which saw 36 teams compete in a single league table, reaches its dramatic conclusion. Teams finishing in the top eight earn a coveted bye to the last 16, while those placed 9th to 24th must navigate a two-legged knockout phase play-off. For German representatives SC Freiburg, a positive result away to LOSC Lille could secure a top-eight finish, though their place is not yet guaranteed. British interest is high, with Aston Villa already qualified but aiming to top the table, while Nottingham Forest and Celtic require specific results to secure playoff berths or better.
Key Facts & Permutations
| Fixture | Stakes & Scenarios |
|---|---|
| Aston Villa vs. RB Salzburg | Villa, already through, can secure top spot with a win. Salzburg, managed by German Thomas Letsch, must win to have any chance of reaching the knockout stages. |
| LOSC Lille vs. SC Freiburg | Freiburg (3rd) seeks a direct last-16 spot. A win likely secures it, but other results could influence their fate. Lille are fighting for a playoff place. |
| Celtic vs. FC Utrecht | Celtic, currently 24th, must win and hope for favourable results elsewhere to climb into the playoff positions (9th-24th). |
| FC Porto vs. Rangers | Porto qualifies directly for the last 16 with a win if Betis, Ferencváros, or Roma drop points, or if Freiburg lose and Porto overturn the goal difference. |
| Nottingham Forest vs. Ferencváros | Forest need a result to confirm their place in the knockout phase, either directly or via the playoffs, depending on other outcomes. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is new about the Europa League format this season?
The 2025-26 season introduced a single league phase featuring 36 teams, replacing the traditional group stage. All teams play eight matches against different opponents. The top eight advance directly to the round of 16, while teams finishing 9th to 24th enter a knockout phase play-off.
Which teams have already qualified for the last 16?
Only two clubs have mathematically secured a top-eight finish and direct qualification: Olympique Lyonnais and Aston Villa. They are tied on points at the summit of the table.
What happens to teams that finish 25th or lower?
Teams placed 25th to 36th are eliminated from European competition for the season. There is no relegation to the UEFA Europa Conference League under this new format.