The draw for the expanded 2026 Asian Champions League Elite took place today in Kuala Lumpur, placing back-to-back champions Al-Ahli of Saudi Arabia against the 2024 winners Al-Ain from the United Arab Emirates in the league phase [1, 2, 3].
The league phase has been expanded from 24 to 32 teams, divided evenly into west and east groups of 16 teams each [1, 2, 3]. The top eight clubs from each group will advance to regional knockout rounds [1, 2, 3].
Al-Ahli, currently coached by Marino Pusic who succeeded Matthias Jaissle after his move to Newcastle United, will also face Qatari clubs Al-Sadd, Al-Shamal, and Al-Gharafa; Emirati sides Shabab Al-Ahli and Al-Wasl; and Uzbekistan’s Neftchi and Pakhtakor [1, 2, 3]. Four-time Asian champions Al Hilal have been drawn against the same opponents as Al-Ahli, while Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, also drew Al-Ain [3].
On the east side, Japan’s Kashima Antlers, the last East Asian team to win the title, will compete with Jeonbuk Motors of South Korea, Buriram United, Port FC, and Ratchaburi FC of Thailand, Cong An Ha Noi of Vietnam, Daejeon Citizen and Pohang Steelers from South Korea, and Australia’s Newcastle Jets [1, 2, 3].
The league phase will start on September 14, 2026 and run through February 17, 2027 [1, 2, 3]. The knockout stage will remain regional, with four teams from each region advancing to centralized finals in Saudi Arabia for the third year running [1, 2, 3]. The finals phase, including quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final, is set to begin on April 23 and end on May 1, 2027 [1, 2, 3].
Al-Ahli secured its second consecutive ACL Elite title earlier this year by defeating Machida Zelvia 1-0 after extra time [3]. Saudi Arabia has been confirmed as host for the next three editions of the finals [3].
