Al-Ahli Begins Campaign with Match Against Bacha

Al Ahli Saudi will kick off their campaign to defend their titles in the last two editions with a match against Uzbek side Pakhtakor today at the Inma Stadium in Jeddah, in the first round of the unified group stage of the AFC Champions League Elite. Al Ahli have shown inconsistent form in the domestic league, suffering three defeats against four wins so far, and will need to be highly focused against Pakhtakor to avoid another loss this season.

On the other hand, Pakhtakor will not be an easy opponent for Al Ahli, as they are experienced in the competition and currently sit second in their domestic league.

Shabab Al Ahli UAE aim to heal their domestic wounds with a continental victory after failing to win in their last two league matches, suffering a loss and a draw, when they host Iranian side Tractor in their third meeting between the two clubs within a year.

Emirati side Al Wasl travel to face Saudi club Al Qadsiah after a 2-2 draw with Al Ain in a league top-of-the-table clash, which demonstrated their strong preparations this season thanks to their attacking prowess, having scored 15 goals in five matches.

Al Qadsiah return to continental competition after a long absence, with their last appearance being in 1994 in the Asian Cup Winners' Cup, which they won.

Al Ittihad Saudi face a tough away trip to Qatari side Al Shamal today at the Bayt Stadium in Al Khor.

Al Ittihad are progressing ideally in the domestic league, remaining unbeaten this season (four wins and two draws), and currently sit second, aiming for a strong start in the Elite competition and returning with all three points.

For his part, Al Shamal, participating for the first time, aim to make a good impression, especially as they have been delivering solid performances in the league and sit third without any defeats.

Also playing today are Uzbek side Neftchi against Iraqi Al Quwa Al Jawiya, and Iranian Esteghlal against Qatari Al Sadd.