Conference League Showdown: Strasbourg Leads the Pack

The Conference League wraps up its first phase with Strasbourg as the standout team, having secured a direct spot in the round of 16. The league features 36 clubs battling across six rounds. Key teams like Crystal Palace and AZ Alkmaar strive to secure advancement as the final matches approach.

The Conference League wraps up its initial phase this Thursday, with Strasbourg proudly leading the standings. The French team has clinched a direct spot to the round of 16, boasting four victories and one draw, as they prepare to face Iceland's Breidablik at home.

This competition encompasses 36 clubs, each striving for a top-eight finish to ensure a place in the round of 16 by March. Teams placed between ninth and 24th will enter February's knockout playoffs, while the bottom 12 clubs face elimination.

Crystal Palace, fresh from its FA Cup triumph, eyes a direct advancement by securing a win against KuPS at Selhurst Park. Additionally, Fiorentina, AZ Alkmaar, Celje, and AEK Larnaca need pivotal victories in their upcoming matches to stay in the contest.

(With inputs from agencies.)