The Champions League and Europa League reform drew criticism because it added to an already packed calendar, yet the European competitions' league phase finale is set to be a memorable blockbuster next week.

Benfica are second in their domestic league, Primeira Liga, three points behind cross-city rivals Sporting Lisbon, but are 15th in the 36-team league stage in Europe. Barcelona are second in Europe with five wins and one defeat to date but are third in the Spanish top flight, seven points behind table-topping Real Madrid.

The UEFA Champions League returns Jan. 21 after a break that lasted over a month. Barcelona and Liverpool headline Tuesday's action.

The inaugural Champions League league phase is set up for a exciting final-day conclusion with 25 of the 36 teams still awaiting their fate.

Source: UEFA

The Champions League league phase, part of the UEFA competition's new format, is nearing the end and with it teams are being bounced from the competition. The league phase mirrors that of a league table across prominent leagues in Europe.

League phase latest standings as 2024-25 season resumes - Liverpool are sitting pretty at the top of the new-look League table