ISL 2025-26 could return in February. (Picture credit: X)
Football
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News1815-01-2026, 17:18

AFC Truncates ISL Continental Slots Due to Shortened Season

  • The AFC has recognized the shortened 2025-26 Indian Super League (ISL) season, impacting continental qualification slots.
  • Winners of India's top two divisions will now earn indirect slots in the AFC Champions League 2 through zonal qualifiers.
  • Clubs cannot meet the 24-match requirement for direct AFC Champions League 2 qualification due to the delayed season start.
  • Most clubs are expected to play 16 matches, including 13 in the ISL and a minimum of three in the AIFF Super Cup.
  • The AFC clarified that member associations failing eligibility criteria will only receive indirect slots, converting direct slots.

Why It Matters: AFC has reduced ISL's continental qualification to indirect slots due to the shortened 2025-26 season.

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