The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) is considering a major rule change in the Champions League knockout rounds by eliminating extra time and moving straight to penalty shootouts in the event of a draw.

The proposal, aimed at reducing player fatigue, is gaining traction but is unlikely to be implemented before the current TV rights cycle ends in 2027.

9News Nigeria reports that this move comes amid concerns over an increasingly congested football calendar, with the expanded Champions League format and the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup adding more fixtures to players’ schedules.

According to them, scrapping extra time would ease the physical toll on athletes, particularly those in clubs with smaller squads.

While discussions are ongoing, UEFA has yet to formally propose the rule change for ratification.