Europa League Round of 16 Draw: Key Details and Playoff Information

The UEFA Europa League prepares to shift gears as the league phase ends on January 29, 2026. With many clubs contending for advancement, the knockout stage draws nearer. The recent modifications to the competition format, which began in 2024/25, introduce a 36-team system. This structure offers the top eight clubs direct access to the Round of 16 as seeded participants.

Europa League Round of 16 Draw: Key Details

Following the conclusion of the league phase, the draw for the Europa League Round of 16 will occur on February 27, 2026. Scheduled right after the Champions League draw, this event usually takes place at 12 p.m. CET in Nyon, Switzerland, with the Europa League draw expected to commence at around 1 p.m. ET.

Playoff Round Overview

This year, teams finishing ninth through 24th will enter a playoff round comprising eight two-legged ties. Matches will occur on:

• February 17/18 – First legs
• February 24/25 – Second legs

The winning clubs from this playoff round will secure their places in the Round of 16.

Seeding and Matchups

The top eight teams from the league phase will be seeded. These clubs will host the second leg of their ties. Matchups are predetermined based on league standings. For instance:

• The first and second-place teams will face the winners of the playoff match between the 17th and 18th placed teams and the 15th and 16th placed teams.
• The ninth and tenth placed teams will compete against the 23rd and 24th placed teams.

Crucially, there are no restrictions preventing teams from the same country from facing each other in this stage.

Knockout Stage Scheduling

The knockout playoff draw will occur on January 30, 2026, determining the first matchups of the knockout phase. Games in the Round of 16 are scheduled as follows:

• March 12, 2026 – First legs
• March 19, 2026 – Second legs

Notably, since the away goals rule was removed prior to the 2021/22 season, any ties level after regular time in the second leg will move to extra time, and if necessary, penalties will decide the outcome.

Upcoming Matches and Final Dates

The competition continues to advance with further stages scheduled throughout the spring. Key dates include:

As teams look forward to the knockout stages, fans can expect thrilling matchups leading to the prestigious final. For the latest updates, stay tuned to Filmogaz.com.