| Date | R | Home v Away | - |
|---|
Paro FC
FC Abdysh-Ata Kant
East Bengal Club
Maziya SRC
Al Futowa
Al Seeb
Bashundhara Kings
Al Nejmeh
Hilal Al Quds
Al Arabi SC
Al-Ahli Manama
FC Arkadag
Shan Utd
Tainan City
Svay Rieng FC
Madura United
Young Elephants FC
SP Falcons FC
Wikipedia - AFC Challenge League
The AFC Challenge League (previously known as the AFC President's Cup, abbreviated as ACGL) is an annual continental club football competition organised by the Asian Football Confederation. The competition is played among clubs from nations that did not receive direct qualifying slots to the top-tier AFC Champions League Elite or the second-tier AFC Champions League Two, based on the AFC club competitions ranking. The 2024-25 season will mark its inaugural edition in the new format. The winner of the AFC Challenge League gets a direct spot in the group stage of the next season's AFC Champions League Two, if they haven't already qualified through their domestic performance.
History
| Season | Winners |
|---|---|
| AFC President's Cup | |
| 2005 | Regar TadAZ |
| 2006 | Dordoi-Dynamo |
| 2007 | Dordoi-Dynamo (2) |
| 2008 | Regar TadAZ (2) |
| 2009 | Regar TadAZ (3) |
| 2010 | Yadanarbon |
| 2011 | Taipower |
| 2012 | Istiklol |
| 2013 | Nebitçi FT |
| 2014 | HTTU Asgabat |
| AFC Challenge League | |
| 2024–25 | |
The AFC President’s Cup was founded in 2005 as a third tier competition so that clubs from lower-ranked AFC member nations could participate in continental competition.
On 25 November 2013, the AFC Competitions Committee proposed the year of 2014 to be the last edition of the competition. Starting from 2015, league champions of emerging countries were eligible to participate in the AFC Cup qualifying play-off.
The last edition in 2014 saw HTTU Aşgabat defeat Rimyongsu of North Korea 2–1, and became the second consecutive team from Turkmenistan to win the competition.
On 23 December 2022 it was announced that the AFC competition structure would change from the established formats from the 2024–25 season. A new third-tier tournament called the AFC Challenge League would be introduced.
On 24 May 2024 AFC announced that the records and statistics of the preceding AFC club competitions will be recognised and integrated within the revamped club competitions, with the data from the AFC President's Cup transferring to the AFC Challenge League.
The AFC Challenge League is an exhilarating annual soccer tournament that showcases the best emerging talents from across Asia. Established to provide a competitive platform for clubs from developing football nations, the tournament aims to elevate the standard of the game and foster regional rivalries.
**Format and Structure:**
The tournament features a diverse array of teams, including both professional clubs and semi-professional sides, competing in a league format followed by knockout stages. Teams are divided into groups, where they battle it out in a round-robin format, with the top teams advancing to the playoffs. The tournament culminates in a thrilling final, where the champions are crowned and earn a coveted spot in the prestigious AFC Cup.
**Cultural Exchange and Community Engagement:**
Beyond the on-field action, the AFC Challenge League promotes cultural exchange and community engagement. Each tournament brings together fans from different backgrounds, fostering a spirit of unity and sportsmanship. Local communities are encouraged to participate through various events, including fan zones, youth clinics, and cultural showcases, making it a celebration of football and regional heritage.
**Developmental Focus:**
The AFC Challenge League is not just about competition; it is also a vital stepping stone for clubs and players aiming to make their mark on the international stage. The tournament provides invaluable exposure and experience, helping to develop the next generation of football stars and enhancing the overall quality of the sport in Asia.
**Join the Excitement:**
Whether you are a die-hard soccer fan or a casual observer, the AFC Challenge League promises thrilling matches, unforgettable moments, and a showcase of passion and talent. Join us as we celebrate the beautiful game and witness the rise of future football legends!