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.

Manchester City nearly crashed out, but came from behind in the second half, and in the end, all European giants reached the knockout rounds of the Champions League.

Manchester City scored three second half goals to come back from the brink of elimination and advance to the UEFA Champions League’s inaugural knockout round playoffs following a thrilling 3-1 victory over Club Brugge on Wednesday night.

After a frantic last round of action Wednesday, the inaugural 36-team league phase in Champions League history is over.

Arsenal secured a spot in the Champions League round of 16 as they rallied from a goal down to win 2-1 at Girona on Wednesday thanks to goals from Jorginho and Ethan Nwaneri.

Arsenal secured a spot in the Champions League round of 16 as they rallied from a goal down to win 2-1 at Girona on Wednesday.

All four English teams take part in Wednesday's Champions League action. Aston Villa v CelticGirona v ArsenalMan City v Club BruggePSV v Liverpool All kick-off times 20:00 GMT Follow all of the action

Another absorbing "Battle of Britain" is in store today in the UEFA Champions League, between Aston Villa of the English Premier League and Scottish champions Celtic. Both sides need a win to boost their hopes of automatic qualification for the last 16.

Celtic will complete the league phase of their UEFA Champions League campaign tonight (Wednesday) when they take on Aston Villa in Birmingham. The Hoops have already qualified for the knockout