| February 4, 2019
#56/2019
AFC Champions League 2019 set for thrilling campaign
The race to join Asia's elite in the group stage of the AFC Champions League will kick start on Tuesday, as Ceres Negros of the Philippines meet Yangon United FC of Myanmar at Pana-ad Park and Football Stadium while Singapore's Home United face Persija Jakarta of Indonesia at the Jalan Besar Stadium.
With 32 teams confirming their places in the group stage, the preliminary stage will see 27 aspiring football clubs in Asia from 22 Member Associations vie for the eight remaining spots in the group stage.
In the next preliminary stage match played on the same day, Al Wehdat of Jordan meet Kuwait SC at the King Abdullah II Stadium.
Meanwhile, the second round of the Preliminary Stage qualifiers commences on February 12, with Pakhtakor of Uzbekistan playing host to three-time AFC Cup champions, Air Force Club, who will be the first Iraqi club to feature in Asia's premier club competition since 2008 at the Pakhtakor Stadium.
Last year's champions Kashima Antlers of Japan, who defeated Islamic Republic of Iran's Persepolis FC in the two-legged finals, await their fate in the playoff stages which begins on February 19.
The AFC Champions League has grown from strength to strength in recent years and today is widely regarded as one of the best Continental club competitions in world football. The 2019 showpiece looks set to continue on this trend, with the total travel contribution doubling from US$4.2 million in 2018 to US$8.4 million.
AFC General Secretary, Dato' Windsor John, was delighted to see the AFC Champions League grow in stature and quality over the years.
"The AFC Champions League is one of the leading club competitions in the world. The AFC Champions League exemplifies our ambitions through the AFC's Vision and Mission in providing an avenue for Asia's top football clubs to showcase their undeniable talent, while presenting a platform for Asia's stars to shine.
"I'm confident the AFC Champions League 2019 will continue to excite and capture the imagination of football fans from around the world. The increase of the total travel contribution is one of many ways which we hope will further support and bring out the best in the teams." | 
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