Defending champions Al Ahli Saudi FC launch their campaign against Uzbekistan's PFC Nasaf, while continental giants Al Hilal SFC, Al Ittihad Club, and Al Sadd SC all enter the stage in the West.

From the East, heavyweights such as Vissel Kobe, Ulsan HD, and Shanghai Port FC appear poised to challenge for supremacy. For fans, that means plenty of opportunities to rack up points in the Match Predictor right from the start.

The game remains simple to play but full of tactical decisions. Fans predict which team scores first and how many goals the match will produce. Don't forget that the booster option can double the score.

The competition offers mesmerising prizes: the overall champion will win two tickets to the 2026/27 Final, including flights and accommodation, along with a signed jersey from their favorite finalist.

Additional prizes, such as signed shirts, vouchers, and match tickets, are available for matchday and knockout stage leaders.

Still analysing which team to pick for Match day 1? Let us help you out.

Editor's Matchday 1 Preview & Tips

West picks

Al Hilal SFC vs Al-Duhail SC
The additions of Darwin Nunez and Theo Hernandez make Al Hilal's attack look sharper than ever. Their squad depth should prove too much for Al Duhail SC, though the Qatari side's counter-attacking style may cause the odd scare.
Prediction: Al Hilal win.

Al Ahli Saudi FC vs PFC Nasaf
The defending champions begin at home, and this is a match they won't want to slip on. They are disciplined, but the quality gap should be evident. Al Ahli will show why they are a powerhouse of the game. Prediction: Al Ahli win.

East Picks

FC Machida Zelvia vs FC Seoul
The Japanese newcomers are against a seasoned Korean side who made the Elite tournament after a four-season absence. FC Seoul's ability to control the midfield and stretch defences gives them a clear edge. Jesse Lingard may pull a new goal celebration dance?
Prediction: FC Seoul wins.

Shanghai Port FC vs Vissel Kobe
A clash that could swing either way. Port are always dangerous at home, but the J-League 2024/25 champions' experience in continental competition, coupled with their tactical discipline, makes them slight favourites to edge this one.
Prediction: Vissel Kobe win.

Quick Predictions – Other Fixtures

- Sharjah FC vs Al Gharafa SC: Sharjah's home crowd could be decisive for a win. The AFC Champions League Two™ winners will make a statement right at the opening game.

- Al Wahda FC vs Al Ittihad Club: Despite Al Wahda's home advantage, the Saudi Pro League reigning champions can expect a dominant game.

- Shabab Al Ahli vs Tractor FC: Expect a tight one; leaning slightly towards Shabab Al Ahli at home.

- Melbourne City FC vs Sanfrecce Hiroshima: Hiroshima's intensity may overwhelm Melbourne.

- Gangwon FC vs Shanghai Shenhua FC: Both teams arrive with mixed form, but Shenhua's schedule congestion could tilt this towards Gangwon.

- Buriram United vs Johor Darul Ta'zim: Buriram are strong, but the Malaysian outlet is also solid with their marksman, Arif Aiman. We're backing Johor.

- Ulsan HD vs Chengdu Rongcheng FC: Ulsan's experience gives them a slight upper hand, but Rongcheng are no pushovers on enemy's soil. Close call for three-time reigning K League champions.

The Match Predictor is as much about instinct as it is about strategy, while every point matters in season-long competition. Mix up both approaches with our tips and strategy, take risks with a booster to double points for your most confident picks. Matchday 1 is just around the corner.

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