AFC Champions League Kickoff: Al-Ain vs Al-Sadd Ends in Draw
AFC Champions League Starts with a Bang
Defending champions Al-Ain managed to secure a 1-1 draw against Qatar's Al-Sadd in the latest AFC Champions League opener. Matias Palacios scored a stunning goal from distance with just 10 minutes remaining, equalizing after Akram Afif initially put Al-Sadd in the lead during first-half injury time.
Key Matches Recap
- Al-Nassr also faced Al-Shorta in Baghdad, resulting in a 1-1 draw.
- In Jeddah, Al-Ahli defeated Persepolis 1-0 with Franck Kessie scoring early.
- Esteghlal claimed a significant 3-0 victory over Al-Gharafah.
The AFC Champions League has undergone major changes this season, with a shift from 40 teams to just 24, now competing in a Swiss League format. Watch for the knockout rounds, set to take place in Saudi Arabia early next year.
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