2023 UEFA Europa League Knockout Stage Match Dates
Image Credit: Patrick T'Kindt
By: Anthony Tazbaz
Tomorrow marks the beginning of the UEFA Europa League (UEL) knockout stages, where two clubs are drawn to battle for 180 minutes: 2 matches, one at home, another away. The winner of each matchup advances by scoring the most goals within the 180+ minutes. If it remains tied on aggregate (same amount of goals within the 180 minutes), 30 minutes of extra-time will be needed. Then, if needed, penalty kicks!
It is important to note, however, that the 2022-23 edition of European tournaments (UEFA Europa and Europa Conference League included) will be the second edition since UEFA scrapped the away-goal rule, thereby needing to win by scoring more goals (unless penalty kicks decide both clubs’ fates).
Structure
Unlike the Champions League, both the Europa League includes an additional playoff round before the start of the Round of 16. The winners of each UEL group automatically advances to the Round of 16. The group winners and runners-up of the 2022 portion of the competition consist of the following:
On the other hand, the playoff matches comprise the second-place teams from the UEL group stage facing against clubs who finished third in UCL group stage. Below consist of the clubs who suffered from UCL relegation at the conclusion of the 2022 Group Stage campaign:
This year’s edition of the knockout stages features several major clubs, particularly the likes of FC Barcelona, Manchester United, and Juventus FC. While they consist the heavy favourites of the competition, one cannot rule out darkhorses such as Ajax, PSV, and defending/sole UEFA Europa Conference League champions AS Roma. The 2022-23 Europa League should be without a doubt one of the best and most highly anticipated editions of the competition.
To familiarize yourself with the upcoming matches, dates, opponents, and venues, the table below will keep you up-to-date about the key dates to retain. Whether it is during the evening or at work in the afternoon, you might not want to miss these matches!
* Shakhtar Donetsk no longer play in Donetsk since 2014 following the invasion of Crimea and the separatist movements and conflicts in the Donbass region.
Note: This table remains subject to change. It will be updated following the end of each round and once UEFA concludes the knockout stage draw on March 17, 2023. Stay Tuned!
