Asian football postpones club knockouts after US, Israel strikes

KUALA LUMPUR: Asian Football Confederation (AFC) bosses postponed on Sunday the first-leg knockout matches of the continental club championship to be played in the Middle East this week, after the United States and Israel attacked Iran.

The decision to reschedule matches involved all three of the AFC’s main club competitions, including the Champions League Elite, the Malaysia-headquartered AFC said.

“In light of the developing situation in the Middle East… matches in the West Region, originally scheduled for March 2–3, 2026, will now be rescheduled,” it said in a statement in Kuala Lumpur.

“The AFC 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,” the body added.

Games included a scheduled match between Qatar’s Al-Duhail and Saudi powerhouse Al-Ahli, according to the AFC schedule.

Other Elite round-of-16 games like Dubai-based Shabab AlAhli hosting Iran’s Tractor, and Abu Dhabi club Al Wahda versus Al-Ittihad are also affected.

Matches played elsewhere in the Asian region will continue as scheduled, the AFC said.

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