Cristiano Ronaldo and Al-Nassr’s qualification to the Champions League has confused social media sites. In a recent showdown, Al-Nassr emerged triumphant over UAE’s Shabad Al-Ahli with a comeback victory in Riyad for their Champions League qualifier.
This victory solidified their coveted spot in the AFC Champions League group stage. The AFC Champions League, orchestrated by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), stands as a premier club competition. It draws together the finest teams from Asian leagues, including the Saudi Pro League.
However, the term “Champions League” itself has triggered a wave of online perplexity. A segment of the fan base swiftly embraced the notion that Cristiano Ronaldo was set to grace the UEFA Champions League. This is a comparable tournament competed by teams from European leagues, which are the members of UEFA.
Ronaldo's Al Nassr will be playing the Champions League this season, can't say same for Messi's Inter Miami pic.twitter.com/jvkiWSsuzW
— Twilight (@the_marcoli_boy) August 22, 2023
An important distinction arises when considering Al-Nassr’s origin: Saudi Arabia. As a member of the Asian continent, they fall under the AFC umbrella. Consequently, hopes of witnessing Cristiano Ronaldo and Al-Nassr battling the European Titans are dashed.
Nonetheless, the AFC Champions League unveils new avenues for Ronaldo. Competitive matches beckon in locations as diverse as Japan and India. This development injects a positive impetus into the global sporting landscape.
Lionel Messi enhances the sport’s influence in North America through his involvement with Inter Miami. Likewise, Ronaldo’s participation in the AFC Champions League extends his influence in the Asian Continent.
When is the draw of the AFC Champions League?
With Al-Nassr securing their spot in the Champions League, the immediate query arises. When is the draw for the group stage of the competition?
The stage is set for the Group draw, scheduled to unfold at the AFC House in Kuala Lumpur on August 24. This event marks the starting point of a tournament that will span from September 2023 to May 2024, representing the 21st installment of this grand competition.
The tournament structure entails the formation of ten groups, each comprising four teams. These teams will be divided into two distinct zones: the West and the East.
A total of 40 teams will partake in this engaging competition. Among them, eight teams secure their place through a play-off, which includes the victorious Al-Nassr.
Adhering to the principle of country protection, teams from the same Member Association will be kept separate during the Group Stage draw. For example, Al-Nassr will not be pitted against fellow Saudi Pro League teams that have earned their qualification.
Turning the spotlight to the West Zone, a quartet of former champions aspires to reclaim their glory: Al Hilal SFC and Al Ittihad from Saudi Arabia, Al Ain FC representing the United Arab Emirates, and Al Sadd SC flying the flag for Qatar. This assembly of powerhouse teams is resolute in their pursuit of the revered Continental crown.
Shifting focus to the East zone, a similarly captivating narrative unfolds. Among the participants, the group stage accommodates former champions such as Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors FC, Ulsan Hyundai FC, and Pohang Steelers. The defending champions hailing from Japan, namely Urawa Red Diamonds, are also poised to exhibit their prowess on this grand stage.