AFC is renowned for information about Vietnam having a playoff spot in the Asian Champions Cup.

AFC confirms that no plan has been finalized regarding the expansion of the Champions League Elite 2026/27, including rumors related to V.League's participation.

BHarian (Malaysia) reports that recent circulating information about the AFC Champions League Elite 2026/27 possibly expanding participation spots, particularly related to Southeast Asian clubs, including the possibility of V.League (Vietnam) having a playoff, has not been officially confirmed.

According to some unverified sources, Asia's top club competition is said to be expanding from 24 to 32 teams, while allocating additional spots to East Asia and Southeast Asia. This scenario has led to speculation that the V.League champion could secure a playoff spot for the Champions League Elite group stage.

However, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) quickly clarified its stance. AFC Secretary General Windsor Paul John stated that the above information is not yet an official decision, emphasizing that the process of reforming the competition format is still under internal discussion.

He mentioned that expanding the number of teams is only a proposal under consideration among various options, aimed at ensuring competitiveness and balance among regions. All decisions regarding participation spot allocation for each country have not yet been approved.

According to the schedule, this issue will be discussed at the AFC Professional Football Committee before being submitted to the Executive Committee on April 24. This means that all scenarios regarding playoff spots for V.League or Southeast Asian leagues remain hypothetical.

In the context of strong regional football development, many clubs like CAHN and Nam Dinh (Vietnam), along with Thai and Malaysian teams, have shown clear progress on the continental stage. This contributes to AFC considering adjustments to the competition structure in the future.

Nevertheless, BHarian emphasizes that until AFC makes a final decision, all information about AFC Champions League Elite 2026/27 participation spots, including the possibility of V.League having a playoff spot, remains speculative and not officially valid.

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