Hanoi, 12 August 2026 – The full lineup of 32 clubs competing in the AFC Champions League Elite 2026/27 has been confirmed, with Hanoi Police FC set to represent Vietnam in Asia’s premier club competition.
Following the conclusion of the playoff round, the AFC confirmed the final four teams to secure their places in the competition: Hanoi Police FC of Vietnam, Gamba Osaka of Japan, Pakhtakor of Uzbekistan, and Al Ittihad of Saudi Arabia.
The AFC Champions League Elite 2026/27 will feature 32 clubs divided equally between the West and East regions, with 16 teams competing in each.
During the League Stage, each club will be drawn against eight different opponents and play a total of eight matches. Once all fixtures have been completed, the teams will be ranked within their respective regions, with the top eight from both the East and West advancing to the knockout stage.
The format is broadly similar to the league-phase system used in the UEFA Champions League, with clubs facing a selection of opponents rather than competing in traditional four-team groups.
West Region – 16 Clubs
The West Region features five Saudi Arabian representatives: Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ahli, Al-Qadsiah, and Al Ittihad.
Uzbekistan will be represented by Pakhtakor and Neftchi, while the United Arab Emirates have Al Ain, Shabab Al Ahli, and Al Wasl.
Three Qatari clubs – Al Sadd, Al Gharafa, and Al Shamal – will also compete, alongside Iranian sides Esteghlal and Tractor, and Iraq’s Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya.
East Region – 16 Clubs
Vietnam’s sole representative, Hanoi Police FC, will compete in the East Region.
Thailand have three clubs in the competition: Port FC, Ratchaburi, and Buriram United, while Malaysia will be represented by Johor.
Japan have the largest contingent in the East with Kashima Antlers, Vissel Kobe, Kashiwa Reysol, Kyoto Sanga, and Gamba Osaka.
South Korea’s representatives are Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, Daejeon Hana Citizen, and Pohang Steelers, while Newcastle Jets will represent Australia.
Completing the 16-team East Region are Chinese representatives Shanghai Port and Beijing FC.
For Hanoi Police FC, qualification represents another major milestone as the reigning Vietnamese champions prepare to test themselves against some of the strongest clubs in Asian football. Their presence also ensures Vietnam will have a representative competing at the highest level of continental club football in the AFC Champions League Elite 2026/27.
VSN/RPT
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