#ACLElite - Matchday One: Five Takeaways

Kuala Lumpur: The AFC Champions League Elite™ 2025/26 kicked off with a bang with thrill and spills witnessed across the 12 matches.

Shin revels in Ulsan’s winning return

Ulsan: Head Shin Tae-yong praised Ulsan HD FC’s perseverance after his side came from behind to edge Chengdu Rongcheng 2-1 in dramatic fashion in their AFC Champions League Elite ™ 2025/26 opener on Wednesday.

Yoshida hails Vissel’s versatility, Port’s Muscat promises improvements

Shanghai: Vissel Kobe underlined their desire to improve on last season’s bitter exit from the AFC Champions League Elite™ as Takayuki Yoshida’s side kickstarted their 2025/26 campaign with an impressive 3-0 win against Shanghai Port on Wednesday.

Inzaghi hails Al Hilal’s spirit after Al Duhail heroics

Riyadh: Simone Inzaghi praised Al Hilal SFC’s resilience after the Saudi Pro League side overturned a first half deficit to beat Al Duhail SC 2-1 in their AFC Champions League Elite™ 2025/26 opener on Tuesday.

Mixed feelings for Sousa, Skocic after stalemate

Dubai: Shabab Al Ahli head coach Paulo Sousa was encouraged by his side’s performance despite missed chances forcing them to share a 1-1 draw with Tractor FC in their opening AFC Champions League Elite™ 2025/26 match on Tuesday.

Buriram’s adaptability secured win, says Vieira

Buriram: Head coach Osmar Loss Vieira was proud of Buriram United’s ability to adapt after his side came from behind to defeat Johor Darul Ta’zim 2-1 in their AFC Champions League Elite™ 2025/26 opener on Tuesday.