KUALA LUMPUR: The first edition of the Asian Women’s Champions League will kick off with 22 teams and the eventual winner will pocket at least US$1.3 million, the continental governing body said today.
The Asian Football Confederation hopes the inaugural competition will provide a major boost to the women’s game across the region.
The 22 teams will come from across Asia, including North Korea, and the tournament will begin in August with a preliminary phase.
“Twenty-two member associations who have expressed interest in taking part will each be represented by one club for the landmark 2024/25 campaign,” the AFC said.
After the preliminary, group and initial knockout phases, the semifinals and final will be played at a central venue from May 21 to 24 next year.
Among the teams involved will be Japan’s Urawa Red Diamonds Ladies, Melbourne City from Australia and Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr.