DOHA: The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has confirmed that the quarter-final stage of the AFC Champions League Elite will go ahead in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from April 16 to 25 despite growing tensions in the Middle East.
Concerns had emerged over whether the knockout fixtures would remain in the kingdom following the latest regional conflict. However, AFC secretary general Windsor Paul said there are currently no plans to change the tournament schedule.
“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.
Paul added that the AFC does not expect a situation where the matches would be cancelled, noting that Jeddah remains the preferred host city due to its strong international flight connectivity.
The latest escalation in the Middle East has involved renewed military exchanges between several nations, raising concerns over regional stability.
Malaysia’s Johor Darul Ta’zim are among the clubs competing in this season’s AFC Champions League Elite.
