"Under the new Champions League format introduced by UEFA, the top eight teams from the league phase are paired based on their final classification. Barcelona finished fifth in the table, just behind sixth-placed Chelsea. Because of this seeding structure, the two sides were split into different pairing brackets. That meant Barcelona and Chelsea both knew that their round of 16 opponents would emerge from two specific playoff ties."
"The all-French battle between Monaco and PSG was tight, tense and finely balanced across both legs, but eventually, PSG emerged victorious. In contrast, the clash involving Newcastle was far more one-sided, with the English side dominantly imposing themselves."
"Barcelona fans will also remember that Flick's men already faced Newcastle on the opening matchday of the league phase. On that occasion, Barcelona travelled to England and secured an impressive 2-1 victory on hostile ground."
Barcelona finished fifth in the new UEFA Champions League league phase format, which determines round of 16 pairings based on final classification. The top eight teams are seeded into specific brackets, meaning Barcelona's opponent would emerge from one of two playoff ties: Monaco versus PSG or Qarabag versus Newcastle. PSG defeated Monaco in a closely contested battle, while Newcastle dominated their playoff match. Barcelona has already faced both potential opponents this season, losing to PSG at home but defeating Newcastle 2-1 away. The identity of Barcelona's opponent will also determine their position in the knockout bracket, with strategic implications for the tournament structure.
Read at Barca Universal
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