AFC Champions League Elite draw features high-profile Saudi club matchups

The draw for the 2026-27 AFC Champions League Elite has been conducted, featuring an expanded league stage of 32 clubs. High-profile matchups include Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal facing UAE’s Al Ain, and Al Ahli set to meet former winners Al Ain. Al Nassr is also drawn against Al Ain. The league stage is scheduled to begin on 14 September 2026.

In domestic Saudi football, Al Nassr continues its campaign under Ange Postecoglou, recently securing a victory in the King’s Cup against Al-Diriyah, though they competed without Cristiano Ronaldo. Al Nassr is also preparing for a Saudi Pro League fixture against Al Riyadh. Meanwhile, Al-Qadsiah prepares to face Al Ittihad in the Pro League, following a strong recent run under coach Brendan Rodgers.