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When is the Champions League knockout phase play-off draw? What teams are involved? When will the games be played? How d...
30/01/2026

When is the Champions League knockout phase play-off draw? What teams are involved? When will the games be played? How does the format work? All questions answered as 16 teams look to reach the knock-out stages...

Friday 30 January 2026

The Champions League league phase is over - we know eight teams heading for the last 16, but who now has two extra games in their schedules for the right to join them, and who will they play?

The top eight teams - Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Liverpool, Tottenham, Barcelona, Chelsea, Sporting and Man City - have all qualified for the next round of the Champions League, but we still don't know who they will face in the knock-out phases.

Here's everything you need to know about the play-off draw and who's involved...

How do the play-offs work?
The teams ranked ninth to 24th in the league phase will now go head-to-head in two-legged play-off games to determine which eight will progress as the unseeded sides for the last 16, where their opponents will be determined by who finished where in the top eight.

Each play-off side already knows from their league position they will end up in one of two paths. For instance, Real Madrid and Inter Milan, the teams in ninth and 10th, will each play one of Bodo/Glimt and Benfica in the play-offs, the teams in 23rd and 24th. The same with 11th and 12th vs one or 21st and 22nd, and so on. Exactly who plays who will be determined at the knock-out play-off draw.

Teams from the same national association can play each other at this stage - as can teams who faced one another in the league phase.

CL play-offs explained
When is the draw for the play-offs?
The draw will be held from UEFA's headquarters in Switzerland on Friday January 30, with a scheduled start time of 11am - though expect it to begin a little later to get through all the formalities, montages and guest presenters.

Brazil vs Senegal. International Match.4:00pm, Saturday 15th November 2025.Emirates Stadium.Report as Brazil beat Senega...
15/11/2025

Brazil vs Senegal. International Match.
4:00pm, Saturday 15th November 2025.

Emirates Stadium.

Report as Brazil beat Senegal 2-0 in an international friendly at the Emirates Stadium; Chelsea's Willian Estevao and Manchester United's Casemiro got on the scoresheet for Carlo Ancelotti's men; Arsenal defender Gabriel was withdrawn with a suspected groin injury

Gabriel was taken off with an injury midway through the second half
Arsenal defender Gabriel has sparked an injury concern for the Gunners after limping off in Brazil's 2-0 victory over Senegal at the Emirates.

Goals from Chelsea's Estevao Willian and Manchester United's Casemiro were enough to secure the win on English soil as they ramp up their preparations for the 2026 World Cup.

However, Gunners fans will anxiously wait to hear the severity of their defender's injury ahead of the north London derby against Tottenham on Sunday November 23, after he was withdrawn shortly after an hour.

Gabriel appeared to be experiencing a muscular injury to his groin as he was taken off, but there has been no confirmation as to the nature of his discomfort.

Gabriel went down with discomfort before being taken off
The five-time World Cup winners have already secured their passage to North America next summer, but suffered a shock loss to Japan during the October international break.

They were able to bounce back at the home of the Gunners though, with some familiar faces stealing the show.

Chelsea teenager Estevao opened the scoring for Brazil
Eighteen-year-old Estevao has become one of the brightest young stars at Carlo Ancelotti's disposal, and he opened the scoring just before the half-hour mark.

Latching on to a loose ball on the right-hand side of the penalty area, the teenager whipped a shot into the far corner to beat former Chelsea shotstopper Eduoard Mendy.

The lead was doubled just seven minutes later as an unmarked Casemiro was picked out from a free-kick before applying the finishing touch.

Real Madrid pair Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, as well as Casemiro's Man Utd team-mate Matheus Cunha were also among the names to start in north London.

Ancelotti will have another chance to evaluate his players on Tuesday when they travel to Lille to take on Tunisia.

Preview:Nigeria vs Congo DRPublished: November 15 2025A place as Africa’s representative in the 2026 World Cup inter-con...
15/11/2025

Preview:Nigeria vs Congo DR
Published: November 15 2025

A place as Africa’s representative in the 2026 World Cup inter-confederation playoff is at stake as Nigeria face Congo DR on Sunday in Rabat.

The Super Eagles are bidding to reach the global showpiece for a seventh time, while the Leopards chase only their second appearance at the mundial.

Match preview
Towing the long path to World Cup qualification through a last-point resurgence, Nigeria characteristically took the hard route to victory when they faced Gabon in the African playoff semi-final on Thursday.

A gift from the Panthers saw Akor Adams open the scoring in the 78th minute, though Eric Chelle’s men failed to hold on as Mario Lemina levelled matters one minute into added time.

Victor Osimhen’s howler of a miss brought a dramatic end to the regulation period, though the Galatasaray striker atoned with a brace in extra time after substitute Chidera Ejuke nudged Nigeria back in front, sealing a 4-1 victory.

The three-time continental champions have now won five of their last six outings, netting 10 times and conceding just thrice across the most recent three, so confidence is expected to be high heading into Sunday’s African finale.

This will mark the first competitive meeting between the sides, who have not faced each other since a 1-1 friendly draw in 2018, which remains the only stalemate in the previous six encounters, with Nigeria winning two and Congo victorious in three.

The Congolese progressed to the playoff final in dramatic fashion as captain Chancel Mbemba’s stoppage-time goal handed the Leopards a hard-fought victory against Cameroon on Thursday.

Sebastien Desabre’s men have now won each of their last three outings by a solitary goal, reflecting a side that has thrived through defensive solidity rather than attacking flourish.

Congo will hope that reliable record counts on Sunday as the team aims to take a step closer to fulfilling a long-awaited dream, having not made an appearance at the World Cup since 1974, when the nation competed as Zaire.

Standing in the way of that achievement is a Nigerian team ranked 19 places higher on FIFA’s current World Rankings, though the 60th-placed Leopards may not be overly concerned going into this match as underdogs after facing 54th-ranked Cameroon.

Nigeria World Cup Qualifying - Africa form:

D

W

D

W

W

W

Nigeria form (all competitions):

L

W

D

W

W

W

Congo DR World Cup Qualifying - Africa form:

W

W

L

W

W

W

Congo DR form (all competitions):

L

W

L

W

W

W

Team News

Despite picking up his second booking of the campaign, Wilfred Ndidi has been cleared by CAF to feature for the Super Eagles on Sunday, as cautions accumulated during the World Cup qualifiers do not carry over into the playoffs - only confirmed suspensions apply.

Aside from that change, no alterations are likely to the side that started against Gabon, with Nigerian sensation Benjamin Fredrick pairing with Calvin Bassey at the heart of defence, though Semi Ajayi is now available after missing the previous game through suspension.

Upfront, Adams should once again link with Osimhen, with the Galatasaray striker looking to edge closer to the country’s all-time scoring record set by Rashidi Yekini (37) after that brace last time out brought his tally to 31.

Sevilla winger Ejuke could be more involved here after inspiring Nigeria to the win against Gabon, though it remains to be seen whether that display is enough to push Ademola Lookman to the bench.

Meanwhile, Congo have no suspensions nor fresh injury concerns following the clash with Cameroon, meaning Desabre could retain the same lineup from that game.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka is expected to hold the right-back position, while Mbemba and Axel Tuanzebe pair at the heart of defence, with Edo Kayembe completing the quartet protecting goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.

Cedric Bakambu is likely to spearhead the attack once more, with the Real Betis striker’s 20 goals leaving him just two shy of Dieumerci Mbokani’s all-time national record.


Nigeria possible starting lineup:

Nwabali; Osayi-Samuel, Frederick, Bassey, Sanusi; Chukwueze, Onyeka, Iwobi, Lookman; Osimhen, Adams

Congo DR possible starting lineup:

Mpasi; Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Kayembe; Moutoussamy, Pickel, Sadiki; Mbuku,

Bakambu, Bongonda

Inside sports prediction: Nigeria 2-1 Congo DR

This encounter pits two sides that secure victories in contrasting ways, with Nigeria relying on an explosive frontline, while the Congolese have flourished through defensive organisation.

However, the Super Eagles are tipped to edge this clash based on pedigree and superior quality on paper, with the Leopards’s disciplined backline expected to struggle against the attacking threat of their opponents.

‘An important player’ – Chelle laments Ndidi’s ban ahead of Super Eagles clash with DR Congo  November 14, 2025Super Eag...
15/11/2025

‘An important player’ – Chelle laments Ndidi’s ban ahead of Super Eagles clash with DR Congo
November 14, 2025

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle says Nigeria must ‘manage the situation' after deputy captain Wilfred Ndidi was ruled out of Sunday’s FIFA World Cup Africa playoff final against DR Congo.

The Besiktas midfielder picked up an early yellow card in Thursday’s 4–1 extra-time win over Gabon in Rabat, his second caution of the qualifying/playoff series, triggering automatic suspension for the decisive clash.

Ndidi had captained the side in the semi-final, with William Troost-Ekong starting on the bench, and produced a disciplined midfield performance, even supplying the pinpoint assist for Chidera Ejuke’s goal.

Yet his absence leaves Chelle without one of Nigeria’s most influential figures on and off the pitch.

“Ndidi is an important player for us,” Chelle told the NFF Media.

“His experience, ability and leadership on the pitch are important for this team. But we will manage the situation. We have a large squad of players and we will make changes.

“Ndidi is still here with us and will support the team mentally and with his presence.

The coach is expected to turn to either Raphael Onyedika or Frank Onyeka, with the latter impressing in extra time against Gabon. Nigeria will however welcome back Semi Ajayi, who is now eligible to return to central defence after serving his suspension.

Super Eagles target historic step ahead of DR Congo battle in Rabat
Sunday’s final in Rabat offers the winner the single African slot to next March’s six-team Intercontinental Playoff Finals, from which two sides will ultimately qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

It is a contest layered with history and pressure: DR Congo, last at the World Cup in 1974, aim to halt Nigeria’s march toward a seventh appearance since 1994.

The semi-finals offered contrasting paths. Nigeria surged late against Gabon, tearing away in extra time after a tightly contested 90 minutes.

Victor Osimhen, one of the world’s deadliest forwards, netted twice to reach 31 goals in 45 appearances, with the Galatasaray striker now eyeing Rashidi Yekini’s longstanding record of 37 international goals.

DR Congo, meanwhile, edged Cameroon 1–0 with Chancel Mbemba, their captain and chief danger-man, slamming home from a Brian Cipenga corner deep into added time.

The Leopards bring considerable threat through Mbemba, Cipenga, Noah Sadiki, Silas Katompa and forwards Cédric Bakambu, Meshack Elia, Samuel Essende and Fiston Mayele.

Already awaiting in the March playoffs are Bolivia and New Caledonia, with Iraq, Jamaica and Panama in strong contention. Nigeria and Panama are the highest-ranked and therefore likely to be seeded, each needing only one match to seal qualification.

A good omen: Ex-Super Eagles striker backs Nigeria to beat DR Congo after Gabon win November 14, 2025Former Super Eagles...
14/11/2025

A good omen: Ex-Super Eagles striker backs Nigeria to beat DR Congo after Gabon win
November 14, 2025

Former Super Eagles striker Ahmed Garba has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s squad ahead of their crucial World Cup play-off final against DR Congo.

Garba, who was reportedly offered a four-year contract by Borussia Dortmund II during his days, praised the team’s overall progress under coach Eric Chelle.

Nigeria defeated Gabon 4–1 after extra time on Thursday, their second straight match scoring four goals, following the 4–0 victory over the Benin Republic at the Uyo Stadium.

Ahmed Garba: What the former Super Eagles said
Speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa, Garba described the result as a good omen for Nigeria ahead of their must-win clash against DR Congo.

“I cannot remember the last time we won two straight games with four goals. We beat Benin by four, and now we got four again against Gabon,” Garba said.

“This is a good win and a good omen. I wanted us to qualify directly, but since we are here, I am happy with the output, and I am confident in the boys. We could have even scored more than we did, especially in the first half, but the win is a good confidence booster.”

Garba also reflected on the strength of the opponent awaiting Nigeria in the decisive tie. DR Congo stunned Cameroon earlier in the play-offs to set up a physically demanding clash.

He added: “Our next game against DR Congo will be difficult as they were able to defeat Cameroon, who are a big team. It will be a physical game and the boys will have to be up for it,” he noted.

“I like how the team is developing, and I think we will be able to beat them. The Super Eagles have got their confidence back, and I see them defeating DR Congo.

Eyes on DR Congo
Nigeria will now turn their attention to DR Congo in the final step of their African World Cup qualifying playoff.

The Super Eagles seem to have rediscovered their rhythm and would be hoping to secure a victory at the Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex on Sunday.

RacingKate Tracey, Sam Boswell and Declan Rix return in search of winners at Cheltenham's November meeting; Friday 14 No...
14/11/2025

Racing

Kate Tracey, Sam Boswell and Declan Rix return in search of winners at Cheltenham's November meeting;

Friday 14 November 2025

Il Ridoto won last year's Paddy Power Gold Cup
The Weekend Winners panel return with the best betting insights for Cheltenham's November meeting.

Kate Tracey, Sam Boswell and Declan Rix took particular interest in Saturday's Paddy Power Gold Cup Handicap Chase - ran over two miles and four furlongs at Prestbury Park.

With four wins from his last five starts, Jagwar heads the market in the JP McManus silks with Vincenzo and last year's winner Il Ridoto also in situ.

At The Races' Declan Rix…
"I thought this race is based around Jagwar - the market leader. I know he's a Cheltenham Festival winner but I'm not too sure about the form in behind him. Having done the stable tour for the yard, they say he has made progress physically from last year. I don't think he's well handicapped, but he could be the potential star.

"At the prices I'm going to side with Hoe Joly Smoke from the Dan Skelton yard. Harry Skelton has discarded the ride on him for Panic Attack, but Kielan Woods could suit the style of this fella - being a hold up and picking them off late. He looked in good order with himself last time out and the step back in trip should suit."

Host Kate Tracey…
"I'm with last year's winner Il Ridoto as he fits the most trends you need to win this race. He helped me tipping him up in this race last year and he still fits all the trends this year. He made a pleasing return at Chepstow when tiring late on and making an error at the last when Paul Nicholls' horses are needing the run

"Ideally you want a seven-year-old for this race but he's only eight. You need to be prominent in this race which he will be, and you need to have had a prep run which he has. With headgear refitted I think he can go back-to-back in this race.

Sam Boswell…
"You will not find a more in-form trainer than Sam Thomas and he brings Vincenzo to this race. His last seven runners have seen five wins. His runner here hasn't been seen much over this trip which is a question mark. He got nabbed at Newbury by a possible miracle ride and he ran such a good race. His record first time out is also a question mark, but his yard is too good to discount.

"He's around the 5-1 mark and he's the one to take on the top of the market. The Irish have an awful record in this race which is worth keeping in mind, having not won it for about 20 years.

GolfWhat was the Internet Invitational and who featured in the YouTube series? How a tournament featuring golf creators,...
14/11/2025

Golf

What was the Internet Invitational and who featured in the YouTube series? How a tournament featuring golf creators, influences and social media stars produced viral moments, controversy and brought a different audience to the sport

Friday 14 November 2025

Brad Dalke led 'Team Dalke' in The Internet Invitational
A golf tournament in a style that has never been seen before, where creators turn into competitors and team-mates into enemies. Sounds good, right?

For those living under a rock or unaware of the concept of watching sport on different platforms, you may have missed the most intense YouTube golf series ever seen - The Internet Invitational.

Some huge names in the social media world were invited to take part in the tournament, ranging from TikTokers to sports stars, with Big Cedar Lodge in Missouri the venue for the inaugural edition.

It was created by Dave Portnoy and his team at Barstool Sports, paired with Robby Berger (Bob Does Sports), with an initial prize pool of $1m (£760,000) up for grabs and the event generating huge interest across social media.

How did it work?
Over three days of intense competition, including multiple challenges, skins games and on-course side bets, 48 influencers and content creators were whittled down to just a six-person final.

Included in the list of entries were two of Britain's best-known golf YouTube creators - Rick Shiels and Peter Finch - while Grant Horvat, Brad Dalke, Luke Kwon, Paige Spiranac, Gabby Girl Golf and Kyle Berkshire were among the other familiar names involved.

Teams were decided each morning before play, with captains selected via a vote and teams then picked in a draft like those seen in the NFL and NBA. Captains then put players into pairs and matched them against the opposition.

Formats included nine holes of two vs two scramble and nine holes of alternate shot, with the losing team at the end of each day then cut from the event. This process continued for day two, before the remaining 12 players were split into four groups of three on the final day.

The creators played 18 holes of alternate shot at the stunning Cliffhangers par-three course and the top two teams then progressed to an 18-hole final, while the whole event led to a six-part YouTube series watched by millions.

What happened in the final?
The final was between 'Team Dalke', consisting of Dalke, Cody 'Beef' Franke and Francis Ellis, and Team Spiranac, made up of Spiranac, Malosi Togisala and Frankie Borrelli.

Brad Dalke played at The Masters in 2017
Team Spiranac were the heavy favourites and there was drama early after a putt wasn't conceded by Ellis, with Spiranac taking offence and accusing them of 'never playing tournament golf' during a row at the next tee box.

More drama followed with Togisala being accused of using 'slope' on his range finder - a feature that calculates adjusted distances factoring in elevation changes - with the tournament coming to a standstill during an investigation about whether he had intentionally cheated.

It was decided there was no conclusive evidence to suggest foul play, although a social media clip led to some fans suggesting it looked like settings were changed before the range finder was inspected!

It appeared the whole saga weighed on Togisala for the rest of the round, as Team Dalke closed out victory. The ending scenes were emotional as a tribute was played out in memory of 'Beef', who passed away shortly after winning the event and before the series was released.

What were the other big talking points?
The main talking point of day one was who had the better players in their team, with former PGA Tour player Wesley Bryan the favourite but then - much to the delight of many of the creators - knocked out in the opening round.

Bryan was knocked out by his brother George Bryan, who has also played on the PGA Tour, with Horvat, Shiels, Garret Clarke and Kwon also among those who failed to progress to the second day.

Kwon made headlines that week for sleeping in and missing his opening tee time. Event organiser Portnoy felt disrespected and gave him a five-hole penalty when he did eventually turn up, with the mishap going viral on social media.

Other viral moments included two players being offered $250,000 by organisers to replay one hole, which Tom "Bubbie" Broders and Togisala both declined before progressing to the next round.

What's happening next?
Now that the Internet Invitational is over, many fans have been left wanting more. There was something exciting and groundbreaking about watching a tournament where cameras never cut and golf was relatable to that played on a Sunday morning at your local course.

Portnoy, Barstool Sports and Bob Does Sports have all confirmed that it will be coming back next year, but could something more regular be required to meet the demand and interest?

Do fans want to see this every week? Is Fat Perez going to be the next Tiger Woods? I think not on the latter, but this event has certainly opened the possibility of more tournaments like this in the future. I will definitely not be missing next year's one.

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