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5d ago

Saudi Arabia Hosts AFC Champions League Elite Knockouts as Ronaldo Seeks First Continental Title

Jeddah becomes the stage for Asia's top club competition's new centralized format, with star-studded Saudi clubs poised to dominate.

Soccer Football - Saudi Pro League - Al Hilal v Al Nassr - Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - April 4, 2025 Al Nassr's Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates scoring their second goal REUTERS/Stringer/File Photo
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Cristiano Ronaldo is aiming to add an AFC Champions League triumph to his storied career
England forward Ivan Toney leads a formidable Al Ahli strike force alongside Roberto Firmino and Riyad Mahrez

Overview

  • The AFC Champions League Elite knockout stages, featuring quarterfinals through the final, are set to take place in Jeddah from April 25 to May 3, 2025.
  • Saudi clubs Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ahli, strengthened by high-profile European signings, are among the favorites to claim the title on home soil.
  • Cristiano Ronaldo, at 40, aims to win his first AFC Champions League title with Al-Nassr, who face Yokohama F.Marinos in the quarterfinals.
  • Yokohama F.Marinos, last year's finalists, face challenges with poor domestic form and a recent managerial change, appointing Patrick Kisnorbo as interim coach.
  • The tournament's rebranding and centralized format reflect efforts to enhance its competitive and commercial appeal while showcasing Saudi Arabia's football ambitions.