AFC Champions League Elite Kicks Off with Draws and Wins in West Zone

Revamped tournament sees Saudi Arabia's Al-Nassr and Al-Ain held to draws while Al-Ahli secures a win.

Al-Nassr, missing Cristiano Ronaldo due to illness, drew 1-1 with Iraq's Al-Shorta in Baghdad.
Defending champions Al-Ain salvaged a 1-1 draw against Qatar's Al-Sadd with a late goal from Matias Palacios.
Saudi Arabia's Al-Ahli won 1-0 against Iran's Persepolis, with Franck Kessie scoring in the opening minutes.
Esteghlal of Iran defeated Qatar's Al-Gharafa 3-0, with goals from Ramin Rezaeian and Arash Rezavand.
The new format features 24 teams divided into East and West zones, with the top eight from each progressing to the knockout rounds.