| Odisha FC vs Mohun Bagan | |
| MATCH INFO | |
MATCH :
| Odisha FC vs Mohun Bagan |
COMPETITION :
| AFC Cup |
| DATE: | 19-09-2023 |
TIME:
| 07.30 PM IST (UTC +5:30)
06.00 PM UAE |
STADIUM
| Stadium |
The AFC Cup is an annual association football competition organized by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) for clubs from Asia and the Middle East. It is the second-tier club competition in Asian football, sitting just below the AFC Champions League in terms of prestige and level of competition.
Key points about the AFC Cup:
Format: The AFC Cup typically features clubs from AFC's member associations that do not qualify for the AFC Champions League, which is the premier club competition in Asia. These clubs compete in a tournament format that includes group stages, knockout rounds, and eventually a final.
Participation: Clubs that participate in the AFC Cup are usually from countries with lower-ranked domestic leagues in terms of performance and club infrastructure. However, the competition allows these clubs to gain valuable international experience and exposure.
History: The AFC Cup was first introduced in 2004 as a replacement for the Asian Cup Winners' Cup and the Asian Super Cup, which were discontinued. Since then, it has become an important competition for clubs in the participating regions.
Expansion: Over the years, the competition has expanded to include more teams and regions. Initially, it featured clubs from East and Southeast Asia. Still, it has since been expanded to include clubs from South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East, making it a truly pan-Asian competition.
Winners and Recognition: The winners of the AFC Cup receive a trophy and are also eligible to participate in the AFC Champions League playoff rounds, providing them with an opportunity to compete against some of the best clubs in Asia.
Popular Teams: Some clubs have become regular participants in the AFC Cup due to their consistent performance in their domestic leagues. The competition has helped raise the profile of these clubs within the Asian football scene.
Developmental Role: The AFC Cup plays a significant role in the development of football in emerging markets and provides an avenue for clubs to improve their infrastructure and talent pool.
The AFC Cup has contributed to the growth of football in Asia and serves as an important platform for clubs from smaller footballing nations to showcase their talent on a continental stage. It has also helped foster regional cooperation and competition in Asian football.