The Champions League showcases the finest clubs in world football. It attracts billions of dollars in television, sponsorship and other income for clubs that play in it. It also provides the stage for fans around the world to debate who is the greatest of all time and helps to sell tickets and merchandise.
Since it was established in 1955, a total of 22 different clubs have won the tournament. Real Madrid have won the most titles, winning nine times. The last time a club won consecutive titles was in 1964-65 and 1965-66 when Bayern Munich won both seasons.
After the group stage the competition continues with the knockout phase where teams are drawn against each other in two-legged ties. If the aggregate scores are level after the two legs, the away-goals rule is applied. If the scores remain level after extra time, penalties are used.
From 2024 onwards, the order of the tie in the quarterfinal and semifinal stages will be determined by the rankings from the league phase. This is intended to strengthen the synergy between the league and knockout phases and to provide sporting incentive for teams during the league phase.
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