UEFA took the bold step of reformatting their Champions League competition for the 2024/25 season, with 36 teams now competing for glory on Europe's biggest stage. While the early tussles in the season used to take place in a group stage round-robin form,

It's a kinder format that leaves plenty to be decided on the final day. Smaller clubs will unquestionably advance to the direct elimination stages of the competition, where the stakes and pressure are higher. Upsets in the playoff round are likely to happen, with plenty of Davids getting a chance to dispatch any struggling Goliaths.

Has the new Champions League format been a success? ► Subscribe to Sky Sports News: ► Watch Sky Sports: Michael Bridge assesses whether the new Champions League format has been a success after matchday five of the Champions League.