On Tuesday, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) put forward a recommendation to expand its flagship club tournament, suggesting that the AFC Champions League Elite transition from 24 to 32 teams, commencing with the 2026-27 season.
This expansion would see the tournament divided into two regions, each hosting 16 teams, a change that the AFC believes will enhance competitiveness and promote inclusion across Asian club football.
The continental governing body also proposed modifications to the progression criteria after the league stage in order to elevate the stakes of the initial phase.
According to the proposal, the top six clubs from each region will secure direct entry into the round of 16.
In a departure from previous formats, teams placing seventh to tenth will still have a chance to advance, competing in a newly established knockout stage playoff for the final spots in the last 16.
The clubs ranked seventh and eighth will enjoy home-ground advantage, with the winners of these matches earning their place in the round of 16.
However, it’s important to note that the knockout stage playoff will not be introduced in the 2026-27 season due to the crowded global football calendar, though the AFC intends to roll it out in later seasons.
All proposed changes await the endorsement of the AFC Executive Committee, but they are largely anticipated to be approved as detailed.
Compiled by SportArena.au
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