Conference League 2025/26: how 36 teams are fighting for glory

      15 September 2025 17:18

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      The UEFA Europa Conference League 2025/26 promises to be the most unpredictable in the tournament's history. Despite Chelsea's victory last season, the competition this year is so intense that it is difficult to identify clear favorites.

      This year's 2025 Conference League, available to watch on the Okko online cinema, will for the first time in two seasons implement an expanded format with 36 teams, making the tournament even more dynamic. Each participant will play six matches — three at home and three away — against randomly determined opponents. Such a system eliminates predictable groupings and increases the tension from the opening stages.

      Who made it into the final bracket?

      The list of participants this season includes both experienced clubs with rich histories and ambitious teams striving for European recognition. Among them are England's Crystal Palace, Spain's Rayo Vallecano, Germany's Mainz and Strasbourg, Italy's Fiorentina, Czech Sparta, Slovakia's Slovan, Dynamo Kyiv and Ukraine's Shakhtar. Slovenia's Celje and other representatives from countries with developing football infrastructures will also take part. This diversity provides a unique mix of playing styles, tactical approaches and emotional confrontations.

      How does qualification for the playoffs work?

      The top eight teams automatically advance to the Round of 16, bypassing additional tests. Teams from 9th to 24th place will face off in two-legged playoff ties, where every victory can be the starting point for a historic breakthrough into the quarter-finals. This format gives dozens of clubs a chance to continue their journey even after several defeats in the group stage, raising the level of competition to the maximum.

      Fans' expectations

      Fans expect exciting encounters, unexpected twists and emotional moments. The opening match on 2 October 2025 will kick off the season, and the final on 27 May will close it at the peak of adrenaline. It's worth following developments not only in the top leagues but also in those matches where clubs' fates are decided in the final minutes.

      Crystal Palace — an attempt to return to the European elite.

      Rayo Vallecano — fighting for the status as one of Spain's most exciting clubs.

      Fiorentina — the revival of Italian pride in Europe.

      Dynamo Kyiv — a challenge to traditions and hope for a return to former glory.

      Shakhtar — an experiment with new players and strategies.

      Celje — a small club with big dreams.

      The 2025/26 Conference League will introduce new names and deliver captivating matches. The final is wide open, the intrigue remains, and the rules of the game are being updated.

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