AFC stick with Jeddah despite Middle East tensions


AFC secretary general Datuk Seri Windsor Paul. - AFP

PETALING JAYA: The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have confirmed that the quarter-final stage of the AFC Champions League Elite will proceed in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from April 16-25, despite the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Questions had been raised over whether the knockout stages would remain in the kingdom amid rising regional tensions.

However, AFC secretary general Datuk Seri Windsor Paul said the governing body have no plans to alter the schedule for now.

"Currently, there are no changes to the schedule. However, if the situation escalates, we will refer the matter back to the committee to determine whether the dates need to be adjusted," he said.

"We do not foresee a scenario where the matches will not take place. Jeddah remains the primary hub, as the city has accessible flight connections from around the world."

The latest flare-up in the Middle East has seen renewed military exchanges involving several nations, raising concerns about regional stability.

Johor Darul Ta’zim are the Malaysian representatives competing in the AFC Champions League Elite.

The other Asian clubs from the West Zone are Buriram United (Thailand), Vissel Kobe and Machida Zelvia (Japan).

This unique centralised format features Asia’s top eight clubs clashing in a centralised format in single-leg ties.

 

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