The 2024–25 AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE) has redefined Asian club football, introducing a revamped format and unprecedented prize money. This inaugural season culminates in a high-stakes final between Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ahli and Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale, set to take place on May 3, 2025, at the King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah. Notably, the tournament’s title sponsor, NEOM, has played a pivotal role in this transformation, aligning the competition with Saudi Arabia’s broader vision for sports and innovation.
What Is the AFC Champions League Elite?
The AFC Champions League Elite is the rebranded and restructured version of Asia’s premier club football tournament, organized by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). The 2024–25 season marks the first under this new format, featuring 24 teams from 12 associations. The competition introduced a league phase where each team played eight matches against different opponents, followed by a centralized knockout stage held in Saudi Arabia from April 25 to May 3, 2025. The winner will receive a record $12 million prize, significantly higher than previous editions.
The Final: Al-Ahli vs. Kawasaki Frontale
The final match on May 3 at King Abdullah Sports City will showcase two teams with contrasting journeys. Al-Ahli, a powerhouse from Saudi Arabia, reached the final with a 3–1 victory over Al-Hilal, propelled by goals from Roberto Firmino and Ivan Toney. Kawasaki Frontale, the underdogs from Japan, secured their spot by defeating Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr 3–2, with standout performances from Yuto Ozeki and Akihiro Ienaga.
NEOM’s Strategic Partnership with the AFC
NEOM, a futuristic mega-city project in Saudi Arabia, has extended its sponsorship of the AFC Champions League Elite for multiple years. This collaboration underscores NEOM’s commitment to integrating sports, technology, and innovation. As an official global partner, NEOM’s involvement signifies a strategic alignment with the AFC’s vision to elevate Asian football to global prominence.
The Significance of Jeddah and NEOM’s Vision
The selection of Jeddah as the host city for the final aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader sports and infrastructure development goals. Jeddah’s state-of-the-art venues, including King Abdullah Sports City, are central to the kingdom’s strategy to position itself as a global sports hub. This initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and promote cultural and sporting excellence.
NEOM, as a partner in this vision, plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between traditional sports and futuristic innovations. The project’s emphasis on sustainability, technology, and livability complements the AFC’s objectives to modernize and globalize Asian football. By associating with the AFC Champions League Elite, NEOM enhances its brand visibility and reinforces its commitment to shaping the future of sports and urban development.
The Future of Asian Football
The 2024–25 AFC Champions League Elite represents a significant milestone in the evolution of Asian club football. The tournament’s innovative format, substantial prize pool, and strategic partnerships set a new benchmark for excellence. As the final approaches, all eyes will be on Jeddah to witness which team will etch its name in history. Beyond the match itself, the collaboration between the AFC and NEOM signals a promising future for football in Asia, characterized by innovation, growth, and global recognition
