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The league phase, or regular season, is over. The new formula of the Champions League will now give way to what everyone is waiting for, with direct elimination matches. But there is still novelty with the introduction of these famous dams, which will compete in round trip during the month of February. In short, to access the eighths, between the teams that finished between the 9th and 24th place in the ranking. With a system inspired by playoffs in American sport.
The 9th or 10th will face the 23rd or 24th. The 11th or 12th will face the 21st or the 22nd. So on until the 15th or 16th against the 17th or 18th. And since now the ranking will no longer move, we therefore know the 2 potential opponents for our French clubs. And incredible but true, 2 French clubs will be played in dams! By beating Stuttgart, PSG has passed through the highest part of the barragists, and will face either AS Monaco or Brest!
Lille can dream bigger
Monaco and Brest have lost several places in the ranking by losing, logically, against Inter and Real Madrid. They will therefore face either PSG or Benfica, which has established itself at Juve for the last day. A draw far from being obvious for the two training courses. The worst will be to come for the winner of these two dams, because it will then be necessary to face either FC Barcelona or Liverpool! But let's especially pay tribute to the LOSC which brilliantly validated its ticket for the round of 16 by finishing in the Top 8. Result, the LOSC will be able to quietly look at the dams, before discovering its opponent. This opponent will be either Atalanta, Bruges, Sporting, or Borussia Dortmund. There will therefore be material to create the feat next March.
The back and forth matches will be played on the next 11 and 12 Feb, in two weeks. The returns matches will take place the following week, the 18 and 19. Then the last draw for the competition will be held on Friday, February 21, and will thus determine the entire table. The final will be played this season in Munich on May 31. Will we see a French club?
Written by:
Manu Tournoux is a passionate and knowledgeable football enthusiast with a special focus on French football. Born and raised in France, Manu discovered his love for the beautiful game at a young age and developed a deep understanding of the ins and outs of "Le Championnat." His French roots and extensive experience in football journalism have made him an invaluable asset to the French Football Weekly team.
 
 As an author for the website, Manu's expertise includes not only in-depth analysis of Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 matches but also insightful profiles of up-and-coming talents, detailed transfer news, and engaging coverage of the French national team. His captivating writing style and undeniable passion for the game have earned him a loyal following among our readers.
 
 When he's not crafting engaging articles for French Football Weekly, Manu enjoys attending live matches whenever he can, exploring football culture in various French cities, and engaging in spirited debates with fellow fans. Feel free to follow Manu on Twitter and interact with him as he shares his expert opinions, insights, and love for French football.
