Thai fans are buzzing as CAHN takes on a series of strong teams in the Asian Champions League

The outcome of the draw for the League Stage of the AFC Champions League Elite 2026/27 for Cong An Ha Noi has sparked considerable interest, and Thai fans largely consider it a valuable chance for Vietnam's club.

On the afternoon of August 18, the draw ceremony for the League Stage AFC Champions League Elite 2026/27 was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. As the sole Vietnamese club in Asia's most prestigious club competition, Hanoi Police were placed in Pot 4 in the East Asia region.

According to the draw, coach Alexandre Polking's side will face eight opponents: Kashima Antlers, Shanghai Port, Vissel Kobe, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Beijing FC, Kashiwa Reysol, Kyoto Sanga, and Gamba Osaka.

Notably, CAHN will take on all five Japanese representatives in the East Asia region. This is seen as a massive challenge, as J.League teams boast superior technical quality, squad depth, and international experience.

After the draw results were announced, CAHN's upcoming journey quickly captured the attention of Thai football fans. Many expressed enthusiasm that the Vietnamese team gets to face numerous big names in Asian football.

One fan commented: “This is a chance for CAHN to test themselves against many strong teams. The result may not be the most important thing, as they will gain a lot of experience at Asia's top level.”

Another fan stated: “There are challenges, but this is also an opportunity for the Vietnamese team to prove their quality. If they prepare well, CAHN can certainly create a few surprises.”

A third fan remarked: “Hosting Kashima Antlers and Vissel Kobe at home is a fantastic experience for Vietnamese fans. Matches like these will help Southeast Asian football improve.”

Meanwhile, another account wrote: “CAHN faces up to five Japanese teams, a truly tough schedule. However, they once beat Adelaide United away, so the Vietnamese representative cannot be underestimated.”

In the League Stage, CAHN will play at home against Kashima Antlers, Vissel Kobe, Beijing FC, and Kyoto Sanga. Their four away matches are against Shanghai Port, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Kashiwa Reysol, and Gamba Osaka.

CAHN earned their place in this stage after a convincing 2-0 victory over Adelaide United in the qualifying round. Although the schedule ahead is extremely tough, competing against top clubs from Japan, China, and Malaysia will provide a special experience for Quang Hai and his teammates.