Asian Champions League Elite Draw Pits Holders Al-Ahli Against Former Winners Al Ain

The draw for the expanded Asian Champions League Elite, conducted in Kuala Lumpur, has set the stage for a high-stakes league phase. Back-to-back champions Al-Ahli from Saudi Arabia are slated to face 2024 winners Al Ain of the United Arab Emirates. Al-Ahli, who secured their title by defeating Machida Zelvia 1-0 in extra time earlier this year, are now under the guidance of head coach Marino Pusic following the departure of Matthias Jaissle to Newcastle United.

The competition has grown significantly, expanding from 24 to 32 teams. The league phase is scheduled to run from September 14 through February 17. Participating clubs are split into two regional groups of 16 teams for the west and east of the continent. The top eight finishers from each side will progress to the knockout rounds, which will also be contested on a regional basis. Ultimately, four teams from each side of the confederation will advance to the centralised finals, which Saudi Arabia will host for the third consecutive year. The final phase, comprising the quarterfinals, semifinals, and the championship match, is set for April 23 to May 1.

In the western draw, Al-Ahli and four-time champions Al Hilal face a challenging path, with both clubs matched against Al-Sadd, Al-Shamal, and Al-Gharafa from Qatar, as well as Emirati sides Shabab Al Ahli and Al Wasl, and Uzbek clubs Neftchi and Pakhtakor. Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr will also take on Al Ain as part of their campaign.

The eastern bracket features Japan’s Kashima Antlers, the most recent East Asian titleholder, who will compete against South Korea’s Jeonbuk Motors and three Thai clubs: Buriram United, Port FC, and Ratchaburi FC. The J-League side is also set to face Australian champions Newcastle Jets, Vietnam’s Cong An Ha Noi, and South Korean teams Daejeon Citizen and Pohang Steelers.

Looking beyond the current tournament, the Asian Football Confederation’s executive committee has finalized a long-term agreement, confirming that Saudi Arabia will host the next three editions of the Asian Champions League Elite finals. The report also notes that with the opening round to commence on September 14 and finish on February 17, the league phase has been increased from 24 to ‌32 teams. The report also notes that al-Ahli defeated Machida Zelvia 1-0 after extra time to retain the 2026 AFC Champions League Elite title.