Four Saudi clubs are set to represent the Kingdom in the 2026–27 AFC Champions League Elite, Asia's top club football competition. Al Ahli, Al Hilal, Al Nassr and Al Ittihad all feature among the Saudi entrants.
Three of the clubs — Al Ahli, Al Hilal and Al Nassr — are listed in the league stage. Al Ittihad, meanwhile, is placed in the preliminary stage, meaning it will enter the competition at an earlier round.
The presence of four of the Saudi Pro League's biggest names underlines the continued strength of Saudi football on the continental stage. Each of these clubs carries a large and passionate following across the Kingdom, particularly in Riyadh and Jeddah, where matchdays regularly draw significant crowds and attention.
Why it matters
Continental competition offers Saudi clubs a platform to test themselves against the best teams in Asia, while giving fans at home more high-profile football to follow. For residents and expats alike, the campaign promises an exciting run of fixtures involving some of the most recognizable clubs in the region.
Further details on the format, draws and match schedules are expected to be confirmed closer to the start of the competition.
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