The 2026/27 UEFA Conference League league phase features 36 teams each contesting six matches from mid-October through December, with the draw completed in late August after play-off qualification concluded. Stronger entrants such as Atalanta, Brighton, Ajax, Copenhagen, Braga, and Panathinaikos carry higher UEFA coefficients and deeper squads, positioning them as frontrunners for the top eight that advance directly to the round of 16. Mid-tier sides including Getafe, Hearts, Gent, and several Eastern European or Nordic clubs face tougher fixtures that could determine play-off qualification for ranks 9–24. Domestic form, key injuries, and home/away splits in the balanced schedule will shape early momentum, while the expanded format rewards consistent results over the full six matchdays ahead of February knockout play-offs.