The AFC Champions League has long been a prestigious competition in Asian football, with expectations of growth and increased competitiveness. However, recent developments have shifted the landscape significantly.
Before this update, the league featured 24 teams, divided into East and West regions, with a straightforward knockout format. The anticipation was for a continuation of this structure, with teams vying for supremacy in a familiar format.
However, a decisive moment arrived with the announcement that the AFC Champions League Elite will expand from 24 to 32 teams starting in the 2027-28 season. This change will see 16 teams from each region competing, with the top six clubs qualifying directly for the round of 16.
Additionally, teams finishing between seventh and tenth will engage in knockout playoffs to secure their places in the pre-quarterfinals. This expansion aims to provide opportunities for elite clubs to compete against the continent’s best, as stated by the AFC, which noted that this increase in scale is intended to incentivize higher standards of professionalism and performance within domestic leagues across Asia.
In contrast, Al Hilal, one of the prominent clubs in the league, faced a setback during the 2025-26 season. They were eliminated from the tournament after a dramatic quarterfinal match against Al Sadd. The match ended in a 3-3 draw, leading to a penalty shootout where Al Hilal lost 4-2.
Karim Benzema’s missed penalty was a pivotal moment in the shootout, marking the end of an otherwise unbeaten run for Al Hilal across both the AFC league phase and the Saudi Pro League during that season.
Experts suggest that this elimination could impact Al Hilal’s strategy moving forward, especially as they prepare for the expanded format. The defeat has raised questions about their performance consistency, particularly in high-stakes matches.
As the AFC Champions League prepares for its expansion, the implications for clubs like Al Hilal are profound. The upcoming changes will not only alter the competitive landscape but also challenge teams to elevate their game in anticipation of facing a broader array of opponents.
In summary, while the AFC Champions League is set for significant growth, the recent elimination of Al Hilal highlights the unpredictable nature of knockout football. The upcoming seasons will be crucial for teams as they adapt to the new structure and strive for success in a more competitive environment.