Is the new Women's Champions League format a success?

December 19

37 mins

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Episode Description

The first-ever UEFA Women's Champions League Swiss-style league phase is in the books, but was the inaugural campaign in the new format a success?

On this edition of Full Time, host Jillian Sakovitz is joined by The Athletic's Tamerra Griffin to analyze how the opening round of the 2025-26 UWCL played out, from looking at the teams that impressed to those that crashed out, and also whether the new format delivered more drama and better matchups.

After that, Jillian and Tamerra turn their attention to the draw and break down the bracket for the rest of the tournament. Which of the 12 teams remaining are the favorites to win, and who is the dark horse to watch? What does it mean for Chelsea to finally avoid a semifinal meeting with Barcelona? Which knockout round matchups promise to deliver the best fireworks, food and football?

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HOST: Jillian Sakovits

GUEST: Tamerra Griffin

PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes

VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen

Referenced on the show:

Chelsea, Bayern reach Women’s Champions League quarter-finals: Who qualified, how do play-offs work?

Women’s Champions League draw: Potential Arsenal-Chelsea, Barcelona-Real Madrid quarter-final ties

Chelsea’s attack is key in the Champions League. Will the handbrake be released?

NWSL Players Association opposes new star player rule change proposal

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