Summary
Iraq’s Al-Shorta drew 1-1 with Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr in the AFC Champions League despite Al-Nassr missing Cristiano Ronaldo due to illness. Al-Nassr scored first but Al-Shorta equalized shortly after. Other matches included Al Ahli edging out Persepolis 1-0, while Al Ain and Esteghlal also had fixtures in the revamped league format, which features 24 teams from both West and East Asia.

In a tightly contested match, Iraq’s Al-Shorta managed to secure a 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr in the opening fixtures of the AFC Champions League held in Baghdad. The match saw Al-Nassr struggle without their talismanic captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who missed the game due to a viral infection, as confirmed by the club’s statement prior to the match. Al-Nassr initially took the lead in the 14th minute through defender Sultan Al Ghannam, who capitalized on an intelligent pass from Otavio to score. However, the home side responded swiftly, equalizing just ten minutes later due to a defensive lapse involving Al-Nassr’s recent signings Salem Al Najdi and Mohamed Simakan, which allowed Mohammed Dawood of Al-Shorta to score with a powerful strike. Meanwhile, in another fixture, Al Ahli of Saudi Arabia claimed a narrow 1-0 victory over Iran’s Persepolis in Jeddah, aided by a goal from Franck Kessie early in the game. An incident saw a penalty awarded to Persepolis, which was later overturned upon VAR review, while a penalty for Al Ahli in the second half was saved. Al Ain commenced their title defense with a 1-1 draw against Al Sadd of Qatar, with Akram Afif scoring for the visitors and Matias Palacios equalizing for Al Ain. In another match, Esteghlal from Iran comfortably defeated Al Gharafa of Qatar with a score of 3-0. This year’s AFC Champions League features a new structure comprising 24 teams split evenly between West Asia and East Asia, with each club scheduled to play a total of eight matches, four at home and four away, leading into the knockout stages early next year.

The AFC Champions League is the premier club football tournament in Asia, showcasing top teams from various countries in a competitive format. The tournament has seen a restructuring to incorporate a total of 24 teams, divided into West and East Asia, enhancing the level of competition and providing teams with increased opportunities to showcase their talents on a larger platform. This year marks the beginning of the tournament, with clubs eager to make a significant impression and advance through the stages.

The opening matches of the AFC Champions League have set the stage for an exciting tournament, as teams like Al-Nassr, Al-Shorta, Al Ahli, Al Ain, and Esteghlal demonstrate their capabilities. Notable performances from clubs, despite challenges such as player absences, indicate a competitive season ahead. The revised format aims to intensify the competition, promising thrilling encounters as teams vie for continental glory.

Original Source: www.iraqinews.com

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