The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has officially approved a major expansion for the AFC Champions League Elite, increasing the number of participating clubs from 24 to 32 starting with the 2026/27 season. This strategic move is designed to heighten the level of competition across the continent and provide more high-level matches for top-tier clubs. As a result of this restructuring, both Saudi Arabia and Japan have seen their guaranteed berths increased to three automatic spots each, plus two additional playoff slots.

The decision reflects the recent dominance of clubs from the Saudi Pro League and the J-League, who have consistently reached the final stages of the tournament. In fact, this season's final will feature Saudi side Al-Ahli facing off against Japan's Machida Zelvia today, Saturday, April 25. The expansion is expected to significantly reshape the landscape of Asian club football, offering greater representation for the continent's strongest domestic leagues.

Meanwhile, in women's football, Bayern Munich is set to host Barcelona at a sold-out Allianz Arena today for the first leg of the UEFA Women's Champions League semi-finals. Bayern is seeking revenge for a heavy loss last season and enters the match in dominant form, having won 25 of its last 26 games. Over 20,000 tickets have been sold for the clash, which Vincent Kompany has described as a showcase of the highest quality football in Europe.