UEFA could decide on drastic rule change for Champions League knockout matches

UEFA has decided against abolishing extra time in club competitions, despite concerns about player welfare. The decision comes after a debate about easing the burden on players in the congested soccer calendar.

Suggestions of a significant change to the Laws of the Game have been knocked back by a key decision by soccer’s European governing body. UEFA has been exploring amendments to the knock-out rounds of the Champions League and Europa League with a view to easing the burden on players in the second half of the congested soccer season.