The upcoming AFC Champions League Elite (ACL Elite) 2024/25 season is set to showcase the best 24 clubs from Asia in a groundbreaking league stage format. The official draw ceremony for this highly anticipated competition will take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Friday, August 16 at 5 pm. This season marks a pivotal change in the tournament, as the League Stage format will be utilized for the first time in an AFC club competition.
Scheduled to begin on September 16, 2024 and run until February 19, 2025, each team will face eight different opponents within its region, playing four home and four away matches. The line-up will consist of 22 teams that qualified directly and two preliminary stage winners. These teams will be divided into two pots within each region, with a Draw Grid and a Pairings Grid determining the matchups for each club. The country protection principle will be in force to ensure fair play during the draw.
The top eight finishers from each league will progress to the Round of 16 in March 2025, with the unique Finals being held in Saudi Arabia between April 25 and May 4, 2025. The draw ceremony will be live-streamed on YouTube from GMT+8, allowing fans from around the world to witness the unveiling of the matchups for this historic season. This format is sure to bring a new level of excitement and competition to the AFC Champions League and showcase the talents of Asia’s top clubs.
The League Stage format will feature two leagues of 12 teams each, divided into the West and East regions. Each team will have the opportunity to compete against a variety of opponents within their region, providing a diverse and competitive playing field for all participants. With the top clubs from Asia vying for the ultimate prize, the ACL Elite promises to deliver thrilling matches and intense rivalries throughout the season.
By utilizing a bespoke draw software and implementing country protection principles, the AFC ensures a fair and transparent draw process for all participating teams. This ensures that no deadlock situations occur during the draw, allowing for a smooth and efficient selection of matchups for the league stage. With the top clubs from Asia competing in this revamped competition, fans can expect to witness high-quality football and intense battles for supremacy on the continental stage.
The upcoming AFC Champions League Elite season is set to be a landmark event in Asian club football, with the revamped league stage format adding a new dimension to the competition. By introducing the draw ceremony in Kuala Lumpur and streaming it live on YouTube, the AFC is engaging fans from around the world and building excitement for the upcoming season. With top clubs from across Asia competing for glory, the ACL Elite promises to deliver thrilling matches, fierce competition, and unforgettable moments for football fans everywhere. Get ready to witness the best of Asian club football in the 2024/25 season of the AFC Champions League Elite.
