The UCL league phase concluded last night with all 36 clubs in action on the final matchday of the competition’s new format.
Automatic qualification was awarded to the top eight teams, and the closing round delivered late drama and decisive movement across the table.
Arsenal made history by becoming the first side to win all eight matches in the league phase, confirming top spot with another controlled performance.
The Gunners, who have been in imperious form throughout the campaign, secured their progression without needing to rely on other results, underlining their credentials as genuine contenders this season.
Tottenham Hotspur also secured immediate passage to the round of 16, with former AFC Bournemouth striker Dominic Solanke making a decisive impact from the bench.
Solanke, who established himself as a consistent Premier League goal scorer during his time on the south coast, netted just four minutes after coming on to seal Spurs’ place in the top eight.
After the match, Solanke said he was introduced “to try and get that second goal to kill the game,” adding that he is “getting stronger every game” as he continues to build fitness following a lengthy injury absence.
Chelsea joined the automatic qualifiers with a late winner against Napoli, knocking them out of the competition and ensuring a crucial top-eight finish.
Liverpool and Manchester City also confirmed direct passage to the knockout stages, rounding out the strong showing from English clubs.
Overall, five of the eight teams progressing are British, highlighting the continued strength and depth of English football in Europe.
Elsewhere, Sporting Lisbon staged a dramatic comeback to score an extra-time winner and claim automatic qualification.
Real Madrid saw their hopes of direct progression end after a shock defeat to Benfica on the final night.
Benfica’s qualification was secured dramatically, with their goalkeeper scoring in the final moments of the game to clinch progression on goal difference.
Current Champions League title holders Paris Saint-Germain were held to a draw against Newcastle United, leaving both sides to contest an additional round before reaching the last 16.
The final matchday delivered intense competition, late drama, and defining moments that have set up an intriguing knockout stage ahead.
Teams will now prepare for what promises to be a thrilling second half of the tournament as attention turns to the round of 16 and play-off fixtures.
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