Paro kicked off the match at the Changlimithang Stadium in high spirits after progressing to the second preliminary round on away goals after a 3-3 aggregate score against Sri Lanka's Defenders FC last week, and dominated proceedings in the opening minutes.

The past decade has shown unprecedented growth and evolution of the AFC Cup. From 31 sides who took part at the 2010 edition to the 43 in the 2019 tournament and with the introduction of the innovative Zonal format in 2017 the AFC Cup has continued to entertain fans of the Continental game.

During the last 10 years, there have been some notable teams who have risen to the fore and we review them and their achievements. Select your favourite in the poll at the bottom of the article to decide who is the best of the decade!

The poll ends at 12:00 (UTC +8) on Sunday.

Since their debut in 2013, Maziya never failed to make an appearance in the AFC Cup till 2017, and after a two-year absence, Sekuovski’s side is eager to begin their bid to return to the group stage.

The Male-based club, who finished second in the Dhivehi Premier League last season, will face familiar foes in Abahani, having played them in the 2017 group stage, where Maziya won both matches and Sekulovski is hoping his side can repeat their success.

Svay Rieng's 3-0 win away at Laotian side Master7 FC completed a comprehensive 7-1 aggregate victory that concluded this week's ASEAN Zone play-offs and ensured Cambodia are represented for a fourth consecutive edition of the AFC Cup.

A result that is of particular significance for the Irishman at the helm of the club.

Two goals in the first half by Sam Oeun Pidor and Jean Marie Mbarga set the tone for Svay Rieng’s second leg victory as the C-League champions were hardly troubled at the National Stadium.

Svay Rieng will join Indonesia’s Bali United, Than Quang Ninh of Vietnam and the Philippines’ Ceres Negros FC in Group G, which starts on February 11.

In possession of a handsome lead following last week’s first leg in Bandar Seri Begawan, Tin Maung Tun’s side never looked in any danger despite being level at 1-1 at half-time, before extending their aggregate lead with second half goals to Emmanuel Ikechukwu and Than Paing.

Yangon United will now join Ho Chi Minh City FC, Lao Toyota FC and Hougang United FC in Group F, which begins on February 11.

PSM will be making their second consecutive appearance in the tournament proper, where they have the Philippines' Kaya FC-ILOILO, Shan United of Myanmar and Singapore's Tampines Rovers FC for company in Group H.