Afro-Asian Club Championship set to be revived in Qatar in January 2025

The competition was last played in 1998 when Morocco's Raja Casablanca defeated Pohang Steelers of South Korea, and will reportedly make a return early in 2025.

Egyptian side Al Ahly, the winners of the CAF Champions League in 2023-24, will face AFC Champions League winners Al Ain (United Arab Emirates).

Qatar represent great hosts for the competition, as the 'Red Eagles' enjoy fantastic support from the Egyptian diaspora in Doha, while the Emirati fans will easily be able to travel to Lusail to support Al Zaeem in the match.

The competition started in 1986 as a one-match format, but two years later it was held in a two-legged format.

Between 1986 and 1998, 11 editions were played, with the African teams winning the title eight times.

Zamalek are the record champions, having won the title twice in 1987 and 1997, while they were also beaten in 1994.

Al Ahly participated in the competition in 1988, defeating Japanâ™s Tokyo Verdy, then named Yomiuri FC, 4-1 on aggregate.

On the other hand, Al Ain, managed by former Argentina striker Hernan Crespo, will participate in the competition for the first time, having won their second AFC Champions League title.

The revival of the competition will be another addition to an already busy schedule for the two sides, who will participate in two international competitions next season, the FIFA Intercontinental Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup.

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