AFC Champions League 2023-2024 Fixtures, Results & Standings

About AFC Champions League

The AFC Champions League (ACL) is the top-tier club football competition organized by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), featuring the best football clubs across Asia. Known for its diversity in football cultures, travel demands, and continental rivalries, the AFC Champions League is Asia’s equivalent to the UEFA Champions League in Europe or Copa Libertadores in South America.

The tournament is renowned for its regional balance, with top clubs from Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Qatar, Thailand, China, and other AFC member nations competing for continental supremacy.

Competition Format

The AFC Champions League underwent a major revamp in 2023, switching to an inter-year calendar (Autumn-Spring) and expanding its group and knockout stages.

Structure:

• Group Stage: 40 teams split into East and West regions
• Knockout Stage: Begins with Round of 16, followed by quarterfinals, semifinals, and a two-legged final
• Clubs qualify via domestic league performance or national cup victories

Points system: Win = 3, Draw = 1, Loss = 0

Top teams from each group, along with the best runners-up, advance to the knockout rounds.

Continental Prestige

Winning the AFC Champions League earns clubs:

• Continental glory and AFC Club Ranking points
• A spot in the FIFA Club World Cup
• Qualification for the AFC–CAF Intercontinental Playoff (starting 2024/25)
• Significant financial rewards and increased exposure

Clubs like Al-Hilal (KSA), Urawa Red Diamonds (JPN), and Pohang Steelers (KOR) have historically dominated the competition.

Top Clubs and Records

• Most titles: Al-Hilal (Saudi Arabia) – 4 titles
• Notable champions: Urawa Red Diamonds, Pohang Steelers, Guangzhou Evergrande
• Historic final matchups have often featured intense East vs West rivalries

Stadiums & Atmosphere

AFC Champions League matches are played across diverse environments:

• Massive stadiums like Azadi Stadium (Iran) or King Fahd International Stadium (Saudi Arabia)
• Tech-powered arenas like Saitama Stadium (Japan)

Attendance varies by region, with matches in West Asia often drawing 40,000+ fans.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the AFC Champions League?
A: It is Asia’s top club football competition, organized by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).

Q: When does the AFC Champions League start and end?
A: The competition now follows a September–May schedule, similar to European leagues.

Q: How many teams participate?
A: A total of 40 teams enter the group stage, with additional teams joining via qualifying rounds.

Q: Who is the most successful club in AFC Champions League history?
A: Al-Hilal of Saudi Arabia holds the record with 4 titles.

Q: Where will the AFC Champions League Final 2025 be held?
A: The final is expected to be played over two legs (home and away) — one in each finalist's stadium.

Q: Does the winner qualify for the Club World Cup?
A: Yes. The winner qualifies for the FIFA Club World Cup, representing Asia.