Ey South Africa! Get ready for a Champions League shake-up! This season, get ready for UEFA Champions League games on a THURSDAY night! You read that right. Forget your usual Tuesday and Wednesday night fixtures, because things are getting a little different.
Why Thursday Night Champions League?
UEFA is introducing an 'exclusive week' where Champions League matches will be played across Tuesday, Wednesday, and... Thursday! This means NO other UEFA competitions (Europa League or Conference League) will be scheduled during this week. This is to showcase Europe's top club competition.
Which Teams Are Playing on Thursday?
This year's exclusive week kicks off with matchday one of the league phase, happening between September 16-18. So, who's gracing our screens on a Thursday? Let's check it out:
- Club Brugge v Monaco (17:45 BST)
- FC Copenhagen v Bayer Leverkusen (17:45 BST)
- Manchester City v Napoli (20:00 BST)
- Eintracht Frankfurt v Galatasaray (20:00 BST)
- Sporting v Kairat Almaty (20:00 BST)
- Newcastle v Barcelona (20:00 BST)
Real Madrid vs Marseille: A Clash of Titans
Speaking of Champions League action, Real Madrid is set to face Marseille. Predictions are flying in, with many expecting Real Madrid to take the win. Keep an eye on Kylian Mbappe, who's tipped to continue his goal-scoring streak. Experts predict a 3-1 victory for Real Madrid, with Mbappe potentially scoring first. Real Madrid are in good form, winning all four matches in La Liga so far this term. Marseille, on the other hand, have had a mixed start to Ligue 1. This should be an interesting match!
What About Europa and Conference League?
Don't worry, the Europa League and Conference League also get their exclusive weeks! The Europa League exclusive week features matches on Wednesday, September 24th, and Thursday, September 25th. The Conference League gets a one-night spotlight on Thursday, December 18th.
So, there you have it! A revamped Champions League schedule with Thursday night football! Get ready for some midweek madness and don't miss out on the action!