AFC Postpones First-Leg Knockout Amid Iran Air Strikes!

Last Updated:March 01, 2026, 14:41 IST

The affected games include a match between Qatar's Al-Duhail and Saudi Arabia's Al-Ahli, Dubai's Shabab AlAhli against Iran's Tractor, and Abu Dhabi's Al Wahda versus Al-Ittihad.

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced on Sunday that it has postponed the first-leg knockout matches scheduled for this week in the Middle East, following the recent strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran.

The matches affected by this decision span all three of the AFC’s main club competitions, including the Champions League Elite, as stated by the AFC, which is headquartered in Malaysia.

“Due to the evolving situation in the Middle East, the matches in the West Region, originally set for March 2-3, 2026, will be rescheduled," the AFC said in a statement from Kuala Lumpur.

The AFC assured that it is closely monitoring the rapidly changing situation and remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all players, teams, officials, and fans.

The affected games include a match between Qatar’s Al-Duhail and Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ahli. Other round-of-16 matches impacted are Dubai’s Shabab AlAhli against Iran’s Tractor, and Abu Dhabi’s Al Wahda versus Al-Ittihad.

Matches in other parts of Asia will continue as planned, according to the AFC.

(With Inputs From Agencies)

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