AFC Postpones Champions League Matches Amidst Middle East Conflict

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has postponed several matches in its continental club championships due to escalating tensions in the Middle East following recent attacks involving the U.S. And Israel in Iran. The decision impacts the AFC Champions League and AFC Challenge League, prioritizing the safety of all involved.

Matches Affected

The AFC announced on Sunday the postponement of the Elite Round of 16 games in the West Region of the AFC Champions League, originally scheduled for Monday and Tuesday. The quarterfinals of the AFC Challenge League, set for Tuesday and Wednesday in the West zone, have also been postponed according to a statement from the AFC. No new dates for these matches have been announced.

The postponements affect matches involving clubs from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Iran as reported by Rediff Sports. Among the teams impacted is Al-Nassr, the Saudi club featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, competing in the Asian Champions League Two competition.

East Region Matches to Proceed as Planned

Unlike the West Region, matches in the East Region across all of the AFC’s continental championships will continue as scheduled. The AFC stated it will “continue to closely monitor this rapidly evolving situation and remains resolute in ensuring the safety and security of all players, teams, officials, and fans” .

Women’s Asian Cup Unaffected

The AFC Women’s Asian Cup, currently underway in Australia, is proceeding as planned, with Iran participating as one of the 12 national teams competing .

Key Takeaways

• The AFC has postponed Champions League and Challenge League matches in the West Region due to regional conflict.
• Matches in the East Region will continue as scheduled.
• The safety and security of all participants is the AFC’s top priority.
• Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr is among the teams affected.