Iranian clubs drawn with Qatar and UAE rivals at neutral sites in Asian Champions League

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (AP) — Iranian football clubs have been paired with teams from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates in the initial group stage of the AFC Champions League Elite. This draw took place despite the ongoing tensions in the region. The inaugural season kicks off on September 14, with matches involving Iranian teams taking place in neutral locations.

Tehran's Esteghlal and Tractor will contest against UAE sides Al Ain, Al Wasl, and Shabab Al Ahli, as well as Qatari clubs Al Gharafa, Al Sadd, and Al Shamal. Esteghlal and Tractor managed to avoid the powerful Saudi Arabian squad. Since the U.S. and Israel launched attacks on Iran in February, Tehran has retaliated by striking targets in Qatar and the UAE, claiming it is a response to the use of American bases against them.

Iran's neighbors have urged Iran to cease firing at their territories. On Sunday, Iran asserted that three of its missing pilots from March were being held in Qatar, although Doha refuted the claim. Iran's domestic league was halted in February due to the attacks but resumed last weekend with one match played behind closed doors and others under capacity limits.

The AFC Elite comprises two 16-team regional divisions. In the West, Saudi Arabia boasts five representatives, with Jeddah's Al-Ahli seeking to become the first club to clinch three consecutive Champions League titles. Coach Matthias Jaissle recently departed to manage English Premier League side Newcastle. Riyadh's rival Al-Hilal aims for its fifth title, while Cristiano Ronaldo leads Al-Nassr in the competition after winning the Saudi Pro League in May.

In the East, Japan has reached the final in the past two editions, with Kawasaki Frontale and Machida Zelvia falling to Al-Ahli, though neither has qualified this season. Gamba Osaka claimed the title in 2008, and South Korea fields two former champions: Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, targeting a third crown, and Pohang Steelers, chasing a fourth.

The top eight teams from each group progress to the round of 16. From the quarterfinals onwards, all matches will be held in Saudi Arabia, with the final scheduled for May 1.