AFC Champions League Elite
Marking the second edition of the revamped format, Al Ahli Saudi FC were crowned champions following a 1-0 extra-time victory against Japan’s FC Machida Zelvia in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, becoming only the second team after Al Ittihad Club to successfully defend the title.
With the 2026/27 season of the AFC Champions League Elite™ already underway, the publication comes at an ideal time, giving readers an opportunity to recall the defining moments of the 2025/26 edition while assessing the trends that shaped the competition.
Following a recount of every stage of the competition, from the League Stage through to the decisive knockout ties, the publication features a tête-à-tête with then Al Ahli Saudi FC head coach Matthias Jaissle.
In the interview, Jaissle, who has since taken the reins of Premier League side Newcastle FC, opens up about the challenges of defending the title after an unbeaten 2024/25 campaign, including the increased demands, injuries and fatigue, while also reflecting on the importance of maintaining tactical discipline and adapting to the challenges presented by different opponents.
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Meanwhile, the AFC Technical Observers Team highlighted the key features that defined the competition, including a blend of sustained physical intensity, careful tactical organisation and individual technical quality, driven by the presence of international stars alongside the rising strength of Asian football.
Among the many technical and tactical topics covered in the report, the experts drew attention to factors such as the affinity towards intense pressing and rapid transitions, as well as the evolving role of strikers and their increasing willingness to drop deep and contribute to the build-up, while also examining the importance of defensive organisation, individual creativity, goalkeeping and emotional resilience.
Additionally, the publication shines a spotlight on the cast of match officials who oversaw the competition, with referees, assistant referees and Video Match Officials appointed under a new evaluation framework.
Finally, the report serves as a repository of each team's profile, revisiting the performances of all 24 clubs and reliving their respective journeys through the 2025/26 campaign.
Replete with statistics, technical analysis and compelling insights, the AFC Champions League Elite 2025/26™ Technical Report, available here, serves as an engaging read not only for technical experts, but also for the millions of passionate fans across the Continent.
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