The UEFA Champions League's first-ever league phase came to a dramatic close on Wednesday, setting up for an equally entertaining knockout stage that begins in two weeks' time. The introduction of the new format means the Champions League will introduce a new phase of competition in February when 16 teams will take part in the knockout round playoffs.

MUNICH, Germany (Reuters) -Bayern Munich eased past Slovan Bratislava 3-1 in the Champions League on Wednesday but the Germans missed out on a top-eight finish and automatic qualification and will go into a playoff for a spot in the Round of 16.

There's work to be done for Bayern Munich today if they are to avoid the UCL playoffs, as they go in search of a win at home against Slovakian strugglers Slovan Bratislava. Last week's 3-0 loss to Feyenoord means Bayern come into this final league phase fixture in 15th,