1. How are away goals counted?
One unique aspect of the Champions League is the rule regarding away goals. In a two-legged tie, each team plays one leg at home and one leg away. If the aggregate score is tied after both legs, the number of away goals scored by each team comes into play.
For example, if Team A beats Team B 2-1 in the first leg, but loses 0-1 in the second leg, the aggregate score is 2-2. However, since Team A scored an away goal and Team B didn’t, Team A would advance to the next round.
2. What happens if away goals are also tied?
In the rare event that both teams have scored the same number of away goals, the tie will proceed into extra time and, if necessary, a penalty shootout to determine the winner.
3. How are goals counted in the group stage?
In the group stage, goals work in a straightforward manner. Each team plays against the other teams in their group home and away, earning 3 points for a win, 1 point for a draw, and 0 points for a loss.
The number of goals scored does not directly impact a team’s position in the group. Instead, it serves as a tiebreaker when two or more teams have the same number of points. The team with the highest goal difference (goals scored minus goals conceded) is ranked higher.
4. How are goals counted in the knockout stage?
In the knockout stage, goals hold significant importance as they directly determine the outcome of the tie. The team with the higher aggregate score after both legs advances to the next round.
If the aggregate score is tied, the away goals rule comes into effect, as explained earlier. If both teams have scored the same number of away goals as well, extra time and a penalty shootout may be required to determine the winner.
5. Do goals count in extra time?
Yes, goals scored in extra time do count towards the final result. If a team scores a goal in extra time, it can greatly impact the outcome of the tie. However, the away goals rule no longer applies in extra time, only during the regular 90 minutes of play.
Goals are at the heart of Champions League matches. From the unique away goals rule to the importance of goals in determining the outcome of a tie, each goal holds great significance. Whether it’s in the group stage or knockout stage, teams must strive to find the back of the net to progress in this prestigious competition.
- How are away goals counted?
- What happens if away goals are also tied?
- How are goals counted in the group stage?
- How are goals counted in the knockout stage?
- Do goals count in extra time?