ACL2020 Matchday One: Group B Preview

The reigning champions are in action in Dubai, while two debutants make their AFC Champions League group stage bow on the same day as things kick-off in full speed in the West Zone.

Group B

Reigning champions Al Hilal play host to debutants Shahr Khodro in what promises to be an interesting tie.

The Iranians made their way to the group stage courtesy of a 2-1 win over Bahrain’s Riffa SC in the Preliminary Round 2 and a penalty shootout victory over Qatar’s Al Sailiyah SC in the Play-off.

Al Hilal have gone from strength to strength after winning the title, finding themselves top of the Saudi Pro League and will hope to start their title defence in style in the neutral ground of Al Wasl Stadium.

In Tashkent, 2015 runners-up Al Ahli return to continental action after two years of absence following their merger with Al Shabab SC & Dubai SC to form Shabab Al Ahli Dubai club. The UAE Pro League table-toppers get their 2020 campaign underway against Pakhtakor who had exited the 2019 edition at the group stage.

Al Hilal SFC (KSA) v Shahr Khord (IRN)
Venue: Al Wasl Stadium, Dubai
Kick-off: February 10, 18:40 UTC+4

Pakhtakor (UZB) v Shabab Al Ahli Dubai (UAE)
Venue: Pakhtakor Stadium, Tashkent
Kick-off: February 10, 16:00 UTC+5