Gość: mm
IP: *.warynski.net
11.07.02, 14:05
Od sezonu 2003/04 zlikwidowana zostanie druga faza grupowa.
After wide-ranging criticism and dwindling television audience figures, Uefa
has announced a radical overhaul of its flagship tournament, the Champions
League.
From the 2003/4 season, the second group stage will be abolished, with the
remaining sixteen teams entering into a two-leg knockout tournament more
reminiscent of the old European Cup format.
"We believe this reduction in the size of the competition is in the longer-term
interests of everyone involved - clubs, players, fans, broadcasters, sponsors
and European football in general," said Uefa president Lennart Johansson of the
plans.
"It is not easy to change a competition which is recognised as the best club
event in the world, but sometimes you need to act for the future," he said.
"We have been listening carefully to our stakeholders, and it is clear that
there are a variety of views. However, we believe this is a moment for
leadership in the wider interests of the game."
The intial format of 32 teams competing in the group stages will be unchanged,
but the removal of the second group phase will reduce the amount of matches
played by the finalists from 17 to 13, a decision certain to please the likes
of Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger who have been fierce opponents of the
bloated format of the Champions League.
"We want to see a better balance in European football, a less congested fixture
list for players and clubs and a flagship competition which has the right
sporting mix and brand strength," added Johansson.
Manchester United, Newcastle United and Celtic will enter the tournament at the
third qualifying round on August 13/14.
