UEFA is discussing the possibility of eliminating extra time in the Champions League playoffs and replacing it with a penalty shootout, as reported The Guardian. This consideration arises from concerns that top clubs are already playing too many matches, and adding an additional 30 minutes on the pitch contributes to player fatigue, especially given the busy schedule of Champions League games.
Implementing such rule changes during the current TV rights sales cycle until 2027 is unlikely. The topic is still in informal discussions, with no concrete solutions in place. If approved, this change could help alleviate the congested calendar and prevent disruptions in match broadcasting.
Statistics indicate that extra time is rarely utilised; last season, only three Champions League matches beyond the Round of 16 went to extra time. The number of matches requiring additional time in the Europa League has decreased from six to four over the past two seasons.
UEFA’s executive committee must approve any modifications to the rules. The last significant change occurred in 2021 when the away goals rule was abolished.
Kursiv Uzbekistan also reports that Pakhtakor lost to Qatari rivals Al-Gharafa with a score of 0-1.
