Delayed Asian Champions League fixtures set for Jeddah in coming month

Countless lives have been lost throughout the Middle East in the wake of the US and Israeli offensive against Iran on 28 February, followed by Iranian counterattacks on Israel, American military sites, and countries around the Gulf.

The round of sixteen clashes were first planned for venues in Qatar, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, featuring home and away legs during the opening fortnight of March.

Current title holders Al Ahli will confront Qatars Al Duhail, as quadruple victors Al Hilal prepare to meet Al Sadd; UAE side Shabab Al Ahli take on Irans Tractor FC, and Al Wahda will face off against Saudi Pro League title holders Al Ittihad.

These matches are now rescheduled for 13 and 14 April as one off encounters before the competitions knockout phases.

Jeddah was previously chosen to stage the quarter finals, semi finals, and the decisive match in a neutral format, with games spanning 16 to 25 April.

Round of sixteen ties from the eastern bracket are complete, seeing Japans Vissel Kobe and Machida Zelvia advance to the last eight alongside Thailands Buriram United and Malaysias Johor Darul Ta'zim.

The quarter final pairings will be determined in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday.