JDT drawn alongside Asean rivals and K-League opposition in ACLE

KUALA LUMPUR: Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) will face a challenging lineup of Asean and K-League opponents in the revamped third edition of the Asian Champions League Elite (ACLE), announced after the draw at the Grand Hyatt in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday. As one of the top-seeded teams in the East Region, JDT aims to capitalize on their continental success in what is expected to be the toughest edition of Asia's premier club competition.

The tournament expanded from 24 to 32 teams across two zones of 16 clubs each, promising eight matchdays of fierce competition. JDT reached the quarter-finals for the first time in the 2025-2026 campaign after a memorable victory against Sanfrecce Hiroshima, fueling their confidence for another top-eight finish to secure a Round of 16 spot.

The draw places JDT at their home ground, the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri, where they will host Thai giants Buriram United and Port FC, as well as Vietnamesetop-tier debutants Cong An Hanoi. However, JDT must also contend with a grueling away schedule, including matches against South Korean powerhouses Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors and Pohang Steelers, as well as a long-haul trip to Australia's Newcastle Jets.

Across the continent, defending champions Al Ahli Saudi, who previously secured two titles, will aim for a historic third victory under new Bosnian tactician Marino Pusic. The 2026-2027 league stage runs until February 17, 2027, with the Round of 16 matches scheduled for March 2027 and the finals set to take place in Saudi Arabia from April 23 to May 1, 2027.