AFC Champions League Elite
An expanded cast of 32 teams will battle for continental supremacy, with the League Stage promising intrigue from the opening whistle as established heavyweights, returning contenders and ambitious newcomers begin their campaigns.
The-AFC.com picks out five things to look out for.
Bigger stage, bigger battle
The AFC Champions League Elite™ returns with an expanded 32-team cast, adding another layer of intrigue to the battle for places in the knockout stage.
The AFC Champions League Elite™ returns with an expanded 32-team cast, adding another layer of intrigue to the battle for places in the knockout stage.
With the teams split between the West and East Zones, there will be little room for a slow start as every point could prove crucial in the race to advance to the Round of 16.
Matchday One will therefore be about more than simply getting off to a winning start, with teams eager to immediately establish themselves among the frontrunners.
Al Ittihad ready to make their mark
Saudi Arabia's Al Ittihad Club will be determined to launch their challenge in style when they travel to face Qatar's Al Shamal SC.
Saudi Arabia's Al Ittihad Club will be determined to launch their challenge in style when they travel to face Qatar's Al Shamal SC.
The Saudi Arabian side have won each of their last two games in the AFC Champions League Elite™ against teams from Qatar, giving them reason for confidence ahead of Monday's encounter at Al Bayt Stadium.
Al Shamal, however, will be equally determined to make home advantage count as they look to lay down an early marker against one of the continent's heavyweights.
Fresh challenge for Neftchi
PFC Neftchi will have the honour of getting the West Zone action underway when the Uzbekistan side welcome Iraq's Air Force SC to Istiqlol Stadium in Fergana on Monday.
PFC Neftchi will have the honour of getting the West Zone action underway when the Uzbekistan side welcome Iraq's Air Force SC to Istiqlol Stadium in Fergana on Monday.
Neftchi will be eager to make an immediate impression on the continental stage but can expect a stern test from an Air Force side with a proud Asian pedigree.
With both teams looking to establish early momentum, their Matchday One meeting provides an intriguing opening to the 2026/27 campaign.
Kashima back for another shot at glory
Kashima Antlers return to the continental stage with the Japanese side hoping to add another chapter to their proud history.
Winners in 2018, Kashima knows what it takes to go all the way and will be eager to make an immediate impact on their rerun to the AFC Champions League Elite™.
With a proven pedigree and challenging for honours again, the J.League outfit will be one of the teams to watch as the 2026/27 season gets underway.
Opening statement crucial
There may still be a long road ahead but Matchday One offers the 32 contenders their first opportunity to send a message to their rivals.
The League Stage format means every result matters and the teams which can quickly find their rhythm will give themselves an important advantage in the race for the Round of 16.
For those who stumble, meanwhile, the pressure to respond will begin almost immediately – making a fast start the order of the day as the battle for supremacy begins.
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