Those who wish North American soccer was more like the European version should take note: a confederation vs. big club/league turf war might be slowly simmering on this side of the Atlantic as well.
For a couple decades, UEFA has been straining to maintain its control over the sport (and the associated cash flow), while Europe’s largest clubs—growing ever richer and more influential—have chafed against soccer’s traditional structure. In an attempt to placate those teams seeking more certainty, more big games and more profit, UEFA has reformatted and expanded its competitions multiple times.
First, a group stage was added to the European Cup, thereby creating the Champions League.