Europa League Knockout Phase Draw: How to Watch and What to Expect

Europa League Knockout Phase Draw: Everything You Need to Know

Europa League knockout phase fans are eagerly awaiting the 2025-26 play-off draw, a pivotal moment for several of Europe’s most storied clubs. Clubs such as Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, Celtic, Fenerbahce, Ferencvaros, and Panathinaikos are in the spotlight, with their fate soon to be decided. The draw determines the crucial matchups that could shape the path to European glory.

How to Watch the Europa League Knockout Play-off Draw Live

For fans eager to follow the action live, there are several ways to catch the Europa League knockout phase play-off draw. In the UK, the event will be streamed on the TNT Sports Football YouTube channel, offering easy access for local viewers. UEFA also broadcasts the draw live on its official website, uefa.com, and through the UEFA Europa League app, ensuring fans worldwide don’t miss a moment.

Viewers in the United States can watch the draw via Paramount+, UEFA’s official broadcast partner in America. With coverage beginning at 12 noon GMT (7am ET), both European and American fans can tune in to see the destiny of their favorite teams unfold in real time.

Europa League Knockout Phase Draw Seeding Explained

The Europa League knockout phase play-off draw features teams divided into seeded and unseeded pots, based on their group stage performance. This system aims to match teams of similar strength, heightening the drama and unpredictability of the competition. Here’s a look at this season’s seeding:

Seeded Teams:

• Genk
• Bologna
• Stuttgart
• Nottingham Forest
• Viktoria Plzen
• Red Star
• Celta Vigo
• PAOK

Unseeded Teams:

• GNK Dinamo
• Brann
• Ferencvaros
• Celtic
• Ludogorets
• Fenerbahce
• Panathinaikos
• Lille

The draw process ensures that each seeded club is paired with an unseeded opponent, ensuring a balanced and competitive knockout phase.

Confirmed Play-off Pairings and Bracket Insights

Once the balls are drawn, the following potential pairings could take place:

• Genk or Bologna vs GNK Dinamo or Brann
• Stuttgart or Ferencvaros vs Celtic or Ludogorets
• Nottingham Forest or Viktoria Plzen vs Fenerbahce or Panathinaikos
• Red Star or Celta Vigo vs PAOK or Lille

These ties set the stage for some thrilling encounters, with the possibility of traditional powerhouses meeting emerging clubs in the knockout phase.

UEFA offers a comprehensive bracket for the knockout rounds, helping fans visualize each club’s potential route to the prestigious final. This tool is essential for supporters plotting their team’s journey and anticipating possible classic encounters in later rounds.

How the Europa League Knockout Phase Draw Works

Understanding the mechanics of the Europa League knockout phase draw is key to appreciating its significance. Seeded and unseeded teams are paired based on group stage rankings, preventing clubs from the same country or group from facing each other at this stage. This meticulous process is designed to maintain a high level of competition and fairness throughout the tournament.

Following the draw, clubs will immediately begin preparations, strategizing to exploit their opponents’ weaknesses and advance to the next round. The draw not only creates fascinating matchups but also provides underdogs with an opportunity to etch their names into European football history.

Where to Find the Latest Europa League News

For supporters looking to stay updated on all things Europa League, including match previews, ticket information, and broadcast schedules, reliable resources are essential. Whether you’re searching for the latest draw results or in-depth team analysis, visit for more news about the Europa League and comprehensive coverage of global football events.

Opinion: Why the Europa League Knockout Phase Draw Captivates Fans

The Europa League knockout phase draw remains one of European football’s most anticipated events. It not only sets the stage for dramatic encounters but also fuels dreams for clubs and supporters alike. The excitement of possible underdog stories and heavyweights clashing keeps fans hooked every season. This year’s lineup is as competitive as ever, promising high-stakes football and unforgettable moments. The anticipation and unpredictability truly embody what makes the Europa League such a beloved competition across the continent.