CAHN may face the most 'thorny' journey in Asian Champions League elite

Hanoi Police could face a very heavy fixture in the 2026/27 AFC Champions League Elite if they land in a disadvantageous draw, with leading clubs from Japan and South Korea lying in wait during the group phase.

After a 2-0 victory over Adelaide United on Australian soil, CAHN have officially secured their spot in the group stage of the 2026/27 AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE). However, ahead of the Vietnamese representative lies a journey predicted to be far from easy.

Positioned in Pot 4, CAHN may have to face clubs rich in tradition and possessing superior squad quality. In the hardest possible scenario, coach Alexandre Polking's men could successively encounter top continental representatives.

Pot 1: Kashima Antlers are the "tallest mountain"

In Pot 1, Kashima Antlers (Japan) and Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors (South Korea) are the two most formidable names.

Kashima boasts a deep tradition in Japanese football, while Jeonbuk has frequently competed and triumphed at Asia's premier club competition. The match control ability, physical foundation, and international experience of both teams could pose a massive challenge for CAHN.

Buriram United (Thailand) and Shanghai Port (China) are seen as more manageable options, but they are still opponents that CAHN cannot underestimate.

Pot 2: Vissel Kobe and Daejeon Hana Citizen make CAHN wary

If looking for another nightmare, CAHN definitely would not want to meet Vissel Kobe (Japan). The Cowspossess a modern playing style, excellent pressing, and space control. This could be an extremely heavy test for CAHN's ability to build up play.

Meanwhile, Daejeon Hana Citizen (South Korea) also presents a big challenge with the physical foundation and speed characteristic of Korean football.

Pot 3: Pohang Steelers are truly fearsome

In Pot 3, the most prominent name is Pohang Steelers (South Korea). They are one of the most experienced clubs in AFC Champions League history. Their competitive spirit, organizational ability, and experience in big matches make Pohang a draw that CAHN must be particularly wary of.

Kashiwa Reysol (Japan) is also a very threatening challenge as the Sun Kingspossess strong technical foundations and good ball control.

Pot 4: Still two Japanese representatives

One cannot ignore Pot 4 itself. CAHN could potentially face Japanese clubs Kyoto Sanga and Gamba Osaka.

However, Gamba is rated somewhat higher as they are the reigning AFC Champions League Two champions. The Nerazzurri defeated Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr in the final back in May.

Meanwhile, Kyoto is also one of the newcomers alongside CAHN taking part in this season's ACLE.

The "thorniest" journey awaits CAHN

Considering the most formidable opponents in each group, a very difficult scenario could see CAHN face:

• Pot 1: Kashima Antlers.
• Pot 2: Vissel Kobe.
• Pot 3: Pohang Steelers.
• Pot 4: Gamba Osaka.