Five Saudi Clubs Open AFC Champions League Elite

Five Saudi clubs — Al-Ahli, Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad and Al-Qadsiah — are preparing to open their campaigns in the league stage of the 2026–2027 AFC Champions League Elite, which kicked off on 14 September 2026.

The competition brings together 32 teams overall, split across regional paths, with 16 clubs contesting the West Region. All five Saudi sides fall within this section, giving Saudi football a strong presence in the continent's premier club tournament.

Al-Ahli, Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad were placed in one path, while Al-Nassr and Al-Qadsiah were drawn into another group set within the West Region league stage.

Why it matters

The presence of five Saudi clubs underlines the growing strength of local football and its expanding profile across Asia. For fans in Riyadh, Jeddah and beyond, the tournament offers weeks of high-level matches featuring leading regional and continental opponents.

The Champions League Elite format continues to place several Saudi clubs on the same regional path, raising the prospect of home-grown showdowns as the stage progresses. Supporters can expect a busy calendar of fixtures ahead, with each club aiming to advance toward the knockout rounds.

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