Back-to-back champions Al-Ahli of Saudi Arabia are set to face 2024 winners Al Ain from the United Arab Emirates in the league phase of the Asian Champions League Elite. The draw for the expanded competition, which now features 32 teams, was held in Kuala Lumpur. Al-Ahli, who recently secured their 2026 title by defeating Machida Zelvia 1-0 after extra time, will compete under new head coach Marino Pusic following the departure of Matthias Jaissle to Newcastle United.
In the league phase, Al-Ahli will also face a challenging schedule against Qatari clubs Al-Sadd, Al-Shamal, and Al-Gharafa, as well as Emirati sides Shabab Al Ahli and Al Wasl, and Uzbek teams Neftchi and Pakhtakor. Four-time Asian champions Al Hilal have been drawn against the same set of opponents. Meanwhile, Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, will also challenge Al Ain during this opening stage of the tournament.
The competition structure divides 32 clubs into two regional groups of 16 for the west and east of the continent. The top eight finishers from each side will progress to the knockout rounds. These last 16 matches will maintain a regional format, with the four victorious teams from each side of the confederation advancing to the centralised finals. Saudi Arabia has been confirmed as the host for these finals for the third consecutive year, with the AFC executive committee making the country’s hosting rights permanent for the next three editions.
The expanded league phase is scheduled to commence on September 14 and will run until February 17. Following the league stage, the finals phase, which includes the quarterfinals, semifinals, and the final, is set to kick off on April 23 and conclude on May 1.
In the eastern section of the draw, Japan’s Kashima Antlers, the most recent East Asian title winners in the current field, will face two-time champions Jeonbuk Motors from South Korea. Their schedule also includes matches against Thai clubs Buriram United, Port FC, and Ratchaburi FC. Additionally, the J-League side will compete against tournament debutants Cong An Ha Noi from Vietnam, South Korean clubs Daejeon Citizen and Pohang Steelers, and the Australian champions, Newcastle Jets. 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.
