AFC Champions League Elite Matchday 1 Player of the Match

The AFC Champions League Elite 2026/27 league stage began with a series of thrilling matches, prompting the AFC to compile a shortlist for the Matchday 1 Player of the Match award.

East Asian Standouts

In the East region, several players delivered remarkable performances. Aleksandar Cavric marked Kashima Antlers' return to continental football with a hat-trick in a big win for the 2018 champions. For Shanghai Port FC, Prince Ampem scored a first-half hat-trick, finding the net in the 31st and 36th minutes before completing his treble in first-half stoppage time.

Takashi Usami inspired a slow-starting Gamba Osaka to a 4-1 victory over Cong An Ha Noi FC. For Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors FC, Tiago Orobó scored an early second-half equaliser to spark a 2-1 comeback win against Kashiwa Reysol. Jeremy Dudziak secured a win for Beijing FC by scoring a minute into the second half.

West Asian Contenders

The West region saw key goals from key players. Reigning champions Al Ahli Saudi FC needed a last-gasp equaliser, which was provided by centre-forward Feras Al Brikan in the third minute of stoppage time. Houssine Rahimi stole the spotlight with a brace as Al Ain FC stunned Al Nassr Club 4-0.

Sergej Milinkovic-Savic powered home a decisive header to double Al Hilal SFC's lead in a victory over Al Gharafa SC. For Al Qadsiah Club, Julián Quiñones set the tone in a dream 2-1 debut victory with an opening goal of real quality.

Decisive Contributions

Other players across Asia secured vital points for their teams. Zoran Marusic earned PFC Neftchi a 1-0 victory over Iraq's Air Force FC with a late header. Yuri César was the match-winner for semi-finalists Shabab Al Ahli, steering a composed finish into the corner.

Baghdad Bounedjah looked to have delivered a dream debut for Al Shamal SC with a 63rd-minute strike, though Al Ittihad later equalised. Anton Krivotsyuk impressed defensively for Daejeon Hana Citizen FC before his team secured a 1-0 win.

Oscar Arribas scored for Johor Darul Ta'zim with a powerful 22-yard strike that the goalkeeper could only palm into his own net. Despite his team's 2-1 loss, Port FC's Peeradol Chamrasamee was recognised as a tireless presence and named Player of the Match.

The AFC states the fan poll will close on 25 September at 17:00 (UTC+8). The winner will be announced on the-AFC.com and the AFC LIVE app.