UEFA is planning a revolution in its competitions: eliminating extra time in the knockout stages. The measure, still under study, would mean that in the event of a tie after the 90 minutes of regulation time, the matches would be decided directly by penalties.
We explain what this change implies, when it could be applied, and how it would affect European football.
A proposal that shakes European tradition
The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) is analyzing a momentous modification in the structure of its most prestigious tournaments: the elimination of extra time in all knockout phases.
This idea, which has not yet been approved, would represent a radical change in the way tied matches are resolved in competitions such as the Champions League, the Europa League, and the Conference League.
According to the first leaks, if a direct elimination match ends in a tie after the 90 minutes of regulation time, it would go directly to the penalty shootout, without the usual 30 minutes of extra time.
Reasons behind the change: health and calendar overload
The main argument supporting this proposal is the growing concern for the health of the players. The European football calendar is more saturated than ever: league matches, international competitions, continental tournaments, qualifying phases, and matches with their national teams.
This accumulation is causing a considerable increase in injuries and physical exhaustion of the players. Eliminating extra time could be an effective way to reduce the load of minutes that professionals accumulate throughout the season.
UEFA is thus looking for a formula that protects the performance and physical integrity of athletes without compromising the competitiveness of its tournaments.
Background: already applied in the European Super Cup
UEFA has already experimented with this format in the European Super Cup. In the event of a tie after the 90 minutes of regulation time, the match goes directly to penalties. This dynamic has proven to be effective, avoiding the extra wear and tear of extra time and offering an immediate resolution.
In addition, other minor competitions or international friendlies have already adopted this system, which shows that this is not a new idea, but a growing trend.
Advantages: speed, emotion, and reduced wear and tear
Among the benefits contemplated by this measure, the following stand out:
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Match schedules: the total playing time would be shortened on nights of maximum demand.
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Reduction of injuries: players are prevented from playing 120 minutes in key matches.
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More immediate emotion: the penalty shootout generates a peak of tension and uncertainty that attracts millions of viewers.
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Greater television planning: facilitates the programming and logistics of broadcasts.
Criticisms: goodbye to historic comebacks?
Not all sectors of football welcome this proposal. Former players, coaches, and fans point out that extra time is part of the DNA of great European nights.
Some of the most memorable feats in the Champions League have been defined in those additional 30 minutes, where fatigue and epic moments combine to offer unforgettable moments.
Eliminating extra time could mean a loss of drama and tactical depth, as many coaches use that extra stretch to adjust strategies or seek the wear and tear of the rival.
Other measures under evaluation: pairings and field advantages
In addition to eliminating extra time, UEFA is considering other changes that could affect the format of the knockout rounds:
- Avoid clashes between teams from the same country before the quarter-finals.
- Grant home advantage to the best-ranked team in the group stage.
- Reduction in the number of matchdays to lighten the calendar.
These modifications point to a more equitable and sustainable reorganization of European competitions.
When could this revolution be applied?
For now, the proposal is in the internal study phase. UEFA has not yet issued an official statement or submitted the measure to a vote. If approved, the changes could begin to be implemented from the 2025/2026 season, although everything will depend on the decisions of the Executive Committee and the affiliated national associations.
The measure would also require a modification of the official competition regulations and its validation by the IFAB (International Football Association Board), the body responsible for defining the rules of football globally.
What do players and coaches think?
To date, there are no official statements from players or coaches, but some historical figures in football have expressed concern in the past about the overload of matches.
If UEFA proposes this change as a measure to protect the player, it is likely to have the support of unions such as FIFPro and national federations.