AFC Champions League Elite knockout stage begins in Jeddah

The iconic 'JEDDAH' sign stands tall under clear blue skies, with a gleaming trophy sculpture in the foreground and palm trees lining the waterfront promenade, highlighting the city’s vibrant and modern coastal identity.

JEDDAH, April 12: The Round of 16 and final stages of the 2025–2026 AFC Champions League Elite kick off today in Jeddah, with the competition running until April 25. The decisive phase will be staged across King Abdullah Sports City and Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City, as Asia’s top clubs battle for continental glory in a high-intensity atmosphere.

The West Region Round of 16 matches are set to take place today and tomorrow in a single-match knockout format, featuring Saudi giants Al Hilal, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad, alongside Qatar’s Al Sadd and Al Duhail, UAE clubs Al Wahda and Shabab Al Ahli, and Iran’s Tractor FC.

The tournament will then move into its centralized final stage from April 16 to April 25, promising a packed schedule of elite-level clashes and heightened competition as teams chase the coveted title.

Quarterfinal action begins on April 16, continues on April 17 and 18, while the semifinals are scheduled for April 20 and 21. The final will be held on April 25 at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium.

The draw has produced several blockbuster encounters. The winner of Al Hilal vs Al Sadd will meet Japan’s Vissel Kobe, while the victor of Al Ahli (defending champions) vs Al Duhail will face Malaysia’s Johor Darul Ta’zim.

On the other side, the winner of Al Ittihad vs Al Wahda will take on Japan’s Machida Zelvia, while Buriram United of Thailand will meet the winner of Tractor vs Shabab Al Ahli.

All knockout matches will be played in a single-leg format, adding further drama and unpredictability to the race for Asia’s top club crown.