AFC Champions League Quarterfinals Set After Dramatic Matches
AFC Champions League Quarterfinals Set After Dramatic Matches...
The AFC Champions League is trending in the U.S. today after a thrilling round of knockout matches determined the final eight teams in Asia's premier club competition. The quarterfinal lineup was finalized late Tuesday night (U.S. time) following dramatic second-leg clashes in Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates.
American interest spiked as Al-Hilal, featuring former MLS star Josef MartÃnez, advanced with a 3-1 aggregate win over Iran's Sepahan. The Saudi Pro League club's global popularity has grown since signing Neymar last year, drawing more U.S. viewers to the tournament. ESPN's expanded coverage this season has also boosted stateside visibility.
Other quarterfinalists include South Korea's Ulsan HD, Japan's Yokohama F. Marinos, and UAE's Al-Ain. The draw for the next round will occur Friday in Kuala Lumpur. Matches resume April 16-17 with the single-leg quarterfinals being hosted by the higher-seeded clubs.
This marks the first Champions League under the tournament's new autumn-spring schedule, aligning with European competitions. The change has created more consistent weekly matchdays, helping build U.S. audience habits. Paramount+ holds exclusive English-language streaming rights in America.
Saudi clubs' heavy spending on global stars has particularly resonated with American soccer fans tracking high-profile transfers. Three Saudi teams remain in contention, continuing the league's strong continental showing. The final will be held May 4 at a neutral site in East Asia.
With no MLS teams competing this year, U.S. interest focuses on individual players and the tournament's growing prestige. The AFC recently secured a new $1.2 billion broadcast deal through 2028, signaling increased investment in Asian club soccer's marquee event.
