The UEFA Champions League's first-ever league phase is over, and the knockout stage outlook is now much clearer. Manchester City avoided disaster, Liverpool topped the league-phase table, and we could get FC Bayern vs.

Attempt saved. Mathys Tel (FC Bayern München) header from the centre of the box is saved.

There's work to be done for Bayern Munich today if they are to avoid the UCL playoffs, as they go in search of a win at home against Slovakian strugglers Slovan Bratislava. Last week's 3-0 loss to Feyenoord means Bayern come into this final league phase fixture in 15th,

The UEFA Champions League's first-ever league phase came to a dramatic close on Wednesday, setting up for an equally entertaining knockout stage that begins in two weeks' time. The introduction of the new format means the Champions League will introduce a new phase of competition in February when 16 teams will take part in the knockout round playoffs.

Bayern Munich need a big win over Slovan Bratislava on Wednesday night to have any chance of securing a top-eight finish in the league phase of the Champions League.Interestingly, Bayern coach

With a spot in the knockouts already secure, Bayern Munich have a chance to sneak into the top eight of the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday when the league phase comes to a close. Bayern enter Matchday 8 in 15th place but are just one point shy of a spot in the top eight and so direct passageway to the round of 16 is a real possibility for Vincent Kompany's side.