ISL Teams Chasing Continental Glory: A Breakdown of AFC Competitions
The Indian Super League (ISL) is a breeding ground for Indian football talent, and some clubs get the chance to compete on the continental stage. Here’s a breakdown of which ISL teams can potentially play in AFC competitions for the 2023-24 season, along with the new format:
Competition Tiers:
- AFC Champions League (ACL) 2: The new second tier of Asian club competitions.
Qualification Routes for ISL Teams:
- ISL League Winners Shield: The winner of the regular ISL season (league stage) earns a direct spot in the AFC Champions League 2 Group Stage. This season, Mohun Bagan Super Giant secured this honor.
- Kalinga Super Cup:ย The winner of the domestic cup competition gets a shot at the ACL 2 through a qualifying playoff. East Bengal, winner of the Super Cup, will enter this playoff stage.
New Opportunity: SAFF Club Championship:
- This year, the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) launched a new club competition. India has two slots, and the ISL teams finishing second and third in the league get these spots.
- FC Goa (runner-up) and Odisha FC (third place) will represent India in the inaugural SAFF Club Championship.
Important Note:
- Due to India’s ranking in Asian football, no ISL clubs participate in the top-tier AFC Champions League (ACL) anymore.
- This is a recent change, and Mumbai City FC’s participation in the 2023-24 ACL is the last for an Indian club for the foreseeable future.
In Summary:
- A maximum of four ISL clubs can compete in continental competitions this season.
- Mohun Bagan (ISL winner) has a confirmed spot in the ACL 2 Group Stage.
- East Bengal (Super Cup winner) gets a shot at the ACL 2 through playoffs.
- FC Goa (ISL runner-up) and Odisha FC (3rd place) will play in the SAFF Club Championship.
This revised structure offers a different pathway for ISL clubs to achieve continental success. The SAFF Championship provides a new platform, while a strong showing in the ACL 2 could improve India’s ranking and potentially lead to a return to the top tier in the future.
DISCLAIMER: This team is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While selecting your team, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.
