oi-Sauradeep Ash
The AFC Champions League fixtures scheduled for March 2, 2026, and the surrounding days in the West Region have been postponed due to escalating security concerns in the Middle East.
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) made the announcement on Sunday, February 28 (or March 1 depending on time zones), citing the “developing situation” amid military actions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
The primary trigger was a U.S.-Israeli military attack on Iran, followed by Iranian retaliatory strikes across the region. This has created heightened tensions, including risks to travel, safety of players, officials, teams, and fans in affected areas.
The AFC emphasized its commitment to monitoring the situation closely and prioritizing security, stating it “remains resolute in ensuring the safety and security of all players, teams, officials and fans.”Specifically affected are the AFC Champions League Elite 2025/26 Round of 16 first-leg matches in the West Region, originally set for March 2-3, 2026.
These include-
Shabab Al Ahli (UAE) vs. Tractor FC (Iran) in Dubai
Al Duhail (Qatar) vs. Al Ahli (Saudi Arabia) in Doha
Al Wahda (UAE) vs. Al Ittihad (Saudi Arabia) in Abu Dhabi
Al Sadd (Qatar) vs. Al Hilal (Saudi Arabia) in Doha
These four high-profile clashes have been rescheduled to later dates, with no new fixtures announced yet. The postponement extends beyond the Elite level. The AFC Champions League Two 2025/26 and AFC Challenge League 2025/26 quarter-final first-leg matches involving West Region teams (scheduled for March 3-4) have also been delayed indefinitely. This includes ties featuring prominent clubs like Al Nassr (with Cristiano Ronaldo).
In contrast, all matches in the East Region across AFC club competitions are proceeding as originally planned, unaffected by the West’s instability.
The decision reflects broader impacts on regional sports, with Qatar’s football federation also postponing all local matches amid the tensions. The AFC will release updated schedules on its official website once conditions allow safe rescheduling.
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Story first published: Monday, March 2, 2026, 20:10 [IST]
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