UEFA Europa League Last 16 Draw: No Turkish Representation as Istanbul Prepares to Host Final

The UEFA Europa League Last 16 draw has been completed, outlining the path to the final, which will be held in Istanbul, Turkey. However, Turkish representation in the latter stages of the competition has ended, as Fenerbahçe was eliminated in the play-off round by Nottingham Forest.

Draw Results and Key Matchups

The draw, conducted at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland, revealed several intriguing matchups. German clubs VfB Stuttgart and Freiburg will both compete in the Last 16.

• VfB Stuttgart (Germany) vs. FC Porto (Portugal)
• SC Freiburg (Germany) vs. KRC Genk (Belgium)

Quarter-Final Pathways

Based on the latest format implemented for the 2024/25 season, teams’ progress is determined by their league stage rankings. Potential quarter-final matchups are likewise taking shape:

• If Stuttgart advances, they will face the winner of Nottingham Forest vs. Midtjylland.
• Freiburg will play against either Celta Vigo or Olympique Lyon in the quarter-finals.

Match Dates

The Last 16 round matches are scheduled to be played on March 12th and 19th.

Istanbul to Host the Final

Despite the absence of a Turkish team in the Last 16, Istanbul remains the host city for the UEFA Europa League final this season, promising a vibrant atmosphere for the culmination of the tournament.

Source: IMAGO Blog