Australia Falls Short of Extra Spot in Expanded Champions League

The AFC revealed that its Professional Football Committee has approved modifications to the tournament, which will see the 2026/27 edition of the club championship increase from 24 to 32 teams when it commences in September.

Currently, Japan has three automatic places in the league phase, while Saudi Arabia possesses two along with a playoff entry.

The revision will allocate Saudi Arabia a total of three guaranteed spots, aligning them with Japan, and provide both nations with two additional playoff positions.

Since the new format was introduced in 2024, clubs from Japan and Saudi Arabia have consistently excelled in the tournament, with Saudi Pro League team Al-Ahli set to clash with J-League side Machida Zelvia in the upcoming final on Saturday.

This expansion will amplify the league phases in both West and East Asia, increasing the number of teams from 12 to 16 on each side of the confederation, with the top eight finishers advancing to the knockout stages next season.

The United Arab Emirates has also seen an increase in their allocation, now securing three automatic slots alongside one playoff spot, while Qatar will have three confirmed berths.

South Korea has received an extra playoff position on top of their existing three confirmed places, while Thailand’s allocation has risen from one to three guaranteed spots in the league phase.

China retains its two automatic slots but loses a playoff position as all three of its teams were unable to reach the knockout rounds in the current tournament.

Australia has been granted an additional playoff slot alongside their confirmed place in the league phase, while both Jordan and Vietnam have been allocated playoff entries.

These changes are pending ratification by the AFC’s executive committee.