Asian Champions League draw: Holders Al-Ahli to face former winners Al Ain
Summary
The Asian Champions League Elite has expanded to 32 teams for the 2026 season. Defending champions Al-Ahli from Saudi Arabia will face several strong teams, including former winners Al Ain from the UAE, with the final stages to be held again in Saudi Arabia.Key Facts
- Al-Ahli, the current two-time champions, will compete against Al Ain, a former winner, in the league phase.
- The league phase includes 32 teams, up from 24 previously.
- Groups are split into west and east regions, each with 16 teams.
- Top eight teams from each region will move to the knockout rounds.
- The knockout and finals stages will take place from April 23 to May 1, 2026.
- Saudi Arabia will host the Asian Champions League Elite finals for the next three years.
- Other notable teams include Al-Nassr from Saudi Arabia, with star player Cristiano Ronaldo, and Japan’s Kashima Antlers.
- The draw for the groups was held in Kuala Lumpur.
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