The race for the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League final looks set to be another fascinating battle amongst Europe's elite.The expanded format of the tournament has meant changes to how teams qualify for the knockout rounds with more games added to the league phase and the creation of Round of 16 playoffs for teams finishing outside the top eight of the league standings.

Real Madrid reached the top 16 after a 6-3 aggregate win over Manchester City in the knockout phase playoff tie after failing to secure direct qualification.

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has started Wednesday’s Champions League match against Real Madrid on the bench after not fully recovering from a knee injury.