Europa League Last-16 Draw: Everything You Need to Know
The Europa League is set to enter its last-16 stage, with three British clubs eagerly awaiting their opponents. As the two-legged knockout phase concludes, Manchester United, Tottenham, and Rangers—who secured direct entry to this round—are preparing for the next challenge.
Manchester United finished third in the league phase after winning five of their eight matches without suffering a defeat. Tottenham followed closely, securing fourth place by just a single point. Meanwhile, Rangers narrowly made it into the top eight, progressing on goal difference.
When and Where to Watch the Europa League Last-16 Draw
The highly anticipated draw will take place on February 21 in Nyon, Switzerland, starting at 1 PM UK time. Prior to this, the Champions League draw will be held an hour earlier. Fans can catch the action live on UEFA’s official website or their YouTube channel, where the event will be streamed in real-time.
How the Draw Works
The top eight teams from the league phase earned a direct pass into this stage, avoiding the knockout playoffs. In the draw, these sides will be matched against the winners of the knockout round, ensuring a fair and competitive matchup.
For instance, Manchester United, who finished third, will be paired with one of the playoff victors, drawn from the teams ranked 13th, 14th, 19th, or 20th in the league phase. Meanwhile, fourth-placed Tottenham will also face one of the remaining playoff winners. Interestingly, because of the way teams are paired, United and Spurs cannot meet each other until the final.
Potential Round of 16 Matchups
Lazio or Athletic Club vs Ferencváros/Viktoria Plzen or Porto/Roma
Manchester United or Tottenham vs AZ Alkmaar/Galatasaray or Midtjylland/Real Sociedad
Frankfurt or Lyon vs Union SG/Ajax or PAOK/FCSB
Olympiacos or Rangers vs Twente/Bodø/Glimt or Fenerbahçe/Anderlecht
The seeded teams that advanced directly to this round will play the second leg at home, giving them a slight advantage. There is no restriction on teams from the same country facing each other, adding to the unpredictability. The first leg of the round of 16 ties will take place on March 6, with the second leg scheduled for March 13.
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