May 19 – The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) have enhanced their AFC Cup 2027 bid hosting credentials following the successful completion of three groups of the East Zone 2021 AFC Champions League.
The expanded 2021 Champions League competition saw the Saudis stepping up to host 12 teams from eight countries after the decision was taken by the AFC to centralise groups.
Saudi Arabia will also be hosting a group stage in June of the Asian Qualifiers for the Qatar 2022 World Cup and the Asian Cup 2023.
Commenting on the success of the Saudi hosting and acknowledging the covid challenges presented in staging the matches, AFC president Sheikh Salman Bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa said: “I extend my thanks and appreciation to the Saudi Football Association, which hosted the first, third and fourth groups in a remarkable manner that confirms the strength and professionalism of its cadres led by Yasser Almisehal.”
Saudi Arabia have taken significant steps to rehabilitate their image within the football world in Asia following issues over piracy of rogue satellite broadcaster BeoutQ and the economic blockade of Qatar.
Saudi hosted Champions League Groups A and D in the Riyadh, and Group C in Jeddah. Each of the four venues used in the hosting, in addition to a venue in Dammam, are part of Saudi Arabia’s bid for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 hosting.
On the pitch Saudi teams Al Nassr and Al Hilal qualified from the groups to the round of 16 alongside Iran’s Esteghlal and Tajikistan’s Istiklol.
In an unusual message of public and football solidarity, which perhaps indicates a pathway and ambition for a more open and inclusive Saudi Arabia, the Saudis said: “Thank you to the staff and players of every team for visiting Saudi Arabia. We hope you enjoyed the Saudi hospitality, and hope you welcome you back soon!
Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1736446827labto1736446827ofdlr1736446827owedi1736446827sni@n1736446827osloh1736446827cin.l1736446827uap1736446827
