Champions League fans left fearing 'fix' which could expose flaw in new format
Champions League fans left fearing 'fix' which could expose flaw in new format
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There is plenty at stake in the final round of Champions League matches as the league phase draws to a close, but some have been left worrying two clubs could deal their rivals a painful blow by playing out a mutually-beneficial draw. The new format of the competition has done away with eight groups of four and introduced a 'Swiss-style' format. This means each of the 36 teams plays eight matches, all scoring points in one big league table.
Those finishing in the top eight will progress directly into the round of 16, with those ranked 9th-24th playing off for the remaining eight spots. The bottom 12 teams will be knocked out of Europe, with no one dropping down into the Europa League. The match in focus is Stuttgart's home tie against Paris Saint-Germain. While there have been no suggestions either team has ill intentions, fans have noticed that a draw would suit both just fine.
PSG breathed new life into their campaign in the last gameweek, coming from behind to beat Manchester City 4-2. Stuttgart, meanwhile, won away at Slovan Bratislava to join the Parisians on 10 points. Both are just above the dotted line, with PSG 22nd and Stuttgart 24th. Manchester City sit in 25th, with their final game coming against a Club Brugge side with 11 points and an inferior goal difference. so a point in Stuttgart would ensure both clubs finish above either City or Brugge.
