AFC looks to make decision on return of Asian football by end of June.

KARACHI -- Asia`s vast size is coming in the way of the return offootballto the continent during the coronavirus pandemic.

The virus outbreak and the ensuing lockdowns have played havoc with the scheduling of the continent`s club football tournaments and competitive international matches.

But with the situation gradually easing in several countries and domestic leagues returning to action the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) is confident of reaching at some decision regarding its club competitions, the marquee AFC Champions League and the second-tier AFC Cup, by the end of June.

`We are looking to make some decisions by the end of June with the support of our member associations, leagues and clubs,` AFC secretary general Dato` Windsor John told Dawn in an email interview, adding that the health and safety of all stal(eholders remained atthe top ofthe agendafor the continent`s football governing body. `However, the fluid situation of the pandemic in the region makes it harder for us to make a final decision at present.

`We must recognise that Asia is a vast continent and the impact and stages of the Covid-19 outbreak varies from country to country, therefore, our member associations are in the best possible position to decide on the implementation of preventive measures and to find solutions to fit the circumstances in their own country. It is an encouraging sign that several member associations have resumed football or are in the final stages of restarting their domestic competitions.

The return of domestic leagues would be the first step towards the resumption of continental competitions, especially the moneyspinning Champions League.

Korea`s K-League resumed in May with no fans allowed in stadiums while Iran`s Persian Gulf Pro League is set to kickstart its season this week.

The Qatar Stars League, Japan`s J-League and Australia`s A-League are all due to resume next month with the Saudi Professional League targeting an August return.

The United Arab Emirates has cancelled the Arabian Gulf League season but there remain major question marl(s over the return of the Chinese Super League (CSL) which has been thrown in fresh doubt following the fresh virus outbreak in Beijing.

Apart from clubs from those leagues, this season`sChampions League has one representative each from Uzbekistan, Iraq, Thailand and Malaysia amongst its 32 participating teams.

`Throughout our engagements, one key takeaway is that everyone is eager and committed towards...

To continue reading

Request your trial

VLEX uses login cookies to provide you with a better browsing experience. If you click on 'Accept' or continue browsing this site we consider that you accept our cookie policy. ACCEPT