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FIRST TEAM

Maldini's Reply to Those Who Criticize the New Champions League Format

Maldini is blunt with his reply to the criticism of the Champions League format and makes his opinion clear

The UEFA Champions League group stage has officially ended, with all the games already played. Some of these have been simply thrilling for many teams that enjoyed every moment. From the perspective of a soccer expert like Julio Maldonado, he has now been able to evaluate this stage.

He considers it to have been a true spectacle, as there have been very few inconsequential games, and in reality, they only went up to the last date. He also mentions that there were teams that had bad luck, like Atlético de Madrid, due to the opponents they had to face. However, on a general level, he considers it an excellent way to change the Champions League format.

What initially seemed to be a controversy by changing a format that already worked at the time, apparently has been a success. However, it still raises certain doubts regarding the format, as it is very similar to the Super League's, and this hasn't been as criticized.

UEFA Champions League trophy on a lit stage with a stadium full of spectators in the background.
The round of 32 has already known its fate | Real Madrid Confidencial

Maldini approves the format

In reference to teams like Real Madrid, except for the poor performance in some of the games, they had quite thrilling encounters at certain points. One of them was clearly Atalanta, where they were playing for their possible qualification to the next round.

Speaking of Atlético de Madrid, they had a very important European campaign where they finished fifth in the standings, which should benefit them. However, this new format will classify them in a match where they will have to face City, Real Madrid, or Bayern.

A soccer trophy next to a knockout stage graphic on a screen with the text
Real Madrid will face Guardiola | Real Madrid Confidencial

However, for now, the only thing that can be done is to wait for those in the knockout stage to qualify. And find out which will be the definitive round of 16. A stage that hasn't been approved so far and will have exciting matches according to the draw.

A dream Champions

With more exciting matches to be played and another round of knockouts, we would be facing one of the most epic editions of the tournament. An edition that surely many fans will follow and enjoy with great excitement to see their team emerge victorious.

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