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AFC postpones Round of 16 matches in Middle East amid regional escalation

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has postponed first-leg Round of 16 matches in its continental competitions scheduled to be held in the Middle East this week due to escalating regional security tensions.

TAS News Service

info@thearabianstories.com

Sunday, March 1, 2026

MUSCAT – In a statement issued Sunday, the AFC confirmed that fixtures in the western region of the continent, originally set for March 2–3, 2026, have been rescheduled due to the current security situation. The postponement affects matches across three major continental tournaments, including the AFC Champions League.

The governing body said it is closely monitoring developments and remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of players, teams, officials, and supporters.

Among the affected fixtures was the match between Al Ahli Saudi and Al-Duhail SC, which had been scheduled to take place in Doha on Monday. Other postponed matches include Shabab Al-Ahli Club versus Tractor, as well as Al-Wahda FC against Al-Ittihad Club.

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