The Champions League play-offs will start between 8 and 10 September, featuring teams from the Netherlands, Norway, Austria, Slovenia, Israel, and Azerbaijan. NEC's chances of reaching the Champions League phase are being closely watched, as they aim to do so at the expense of FK Bodø/Glimt. The Norwegian team reached the last 16 in the previous season.
Seven remaining Champions League tickets are up for grabs in the play-offs, with 14 teams competing for a spot in the competition. NEC is not the only team hoping to make their Champions League debut, with five other teams also eyeing a first appearance in the competition. These teams include LASK Linz from Austria, Viking FK from Norway, NK Celje from Slovenia, Hapoel Be'er Sheva from Israel, and Sabah FK from Azerbaijan.
Hapoel Be'er Sheva and Sabah FK will face each other in the Champions League play-offs, with both teams set to make their debut in the competition. This is one of the most interesting aspects of the play-offs, as both teams will be looking to make a strong impression. The only team among the 29 already qualified teams without Champions League experience is Como.
The draw for the Champions League will take place on 27 August, with the first round of the play-offs scheduled to take place between 8 and 10 September. This is due to the XXL international break in September and October.