Spertsyan's Al Ahli begin Asian Champions League title defence against Pakhtakor

Today, September 14, Saudi Arabia's Al Ahli, featuring Armenia national team midfielder Eduard Spertsyan, will play their opening match of the league stage of the 2026/27 AFC Champions League.

In the first round, the reigning champions will host Uzbekistan's Pakhtakor. The match will take place at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah and will kick off at 22:15 Yerevan time.

Al Ahli enter the new campaign as one of the main favourites to win the competition. The Saudi club will be looking to lift Asia's premier club trophy once again and continue their impressive continental run from recent seasons.

Across the previous two campaigns, Al Ahli suffered just one defeat in 30 matches in Asian competition and have won their last five games. Last season, the team scored 27 goals, more than any other side in the tournament.

Pakhtakor, however, have caused Al Ahli problems in the past. The two clubs have met four times previously, with the Uzbek side winning two of those matches.

In addition to Pakhtakor, Al Ahli will face Al Wasl (UAE), Al Gharafa (Qatar), Al Sadd (Qatar), Al Shamal (Qatar), Shabab Al Ahli (UAE), Neftchi (Uzbekistan) and Al Ain (UAE) during the league stage.

Armenian fans will be paying particular attention to Eduard Spertsyan, who is set to play his first Asian club campaign with Al Ahli.

The official broadcaster of the tournament in Armenia, Russia and Georgia is TV Start.

AFC Champions League, Matchday 1
Al Ahli (Saudi Arabia) — Pakhtakor (Uzbekistan)
September 14, 22:15 Yerevan time
Venue: King Abdullah Sports City, Jeddah.