Southeast Asian fans exclaimed one thing when CAHN faced 5 Japanese teams

CAHN's group stage draw for the 2026/27 AFC Champions League Elite immediately drew attention from Southeast Asian fans, as the Vietnamese representative had to face a series of strong teams, especially 5 clubs from Japan.

On the afternoon of August 18, the draw for the group stage of the 2026/27 AFC Champions League Elite took place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, determining the challenging journey of Hanoi Police. The Vietnamese representative was placed in Pot 4 of the East Asia region and will successively face Kashima Antlers, Shanghai Port, Vissel Kobe, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Beijing FC, Kashiwa Reysol, Kyoto Sanga, and Gamba Osaka.

According to the draw results, CAHN will play 4 matches at home against Kashima Antlers, Vissel Kobe, Beijing FC, and Kyoto Sanga, while also having to travel to the grounds of Shanghai Port, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Kashiwa Reysol, and Gamba Osaka. Notably, the fact that the Vietnamese representative must face 5 Japanese teams immediately attracted the attention of Southeast Asian fans.

One fan commented: "This is a very difficult group, especially when facing 5 Japanese teams. Good luck to CAHN." Meanwhile, another opinion praised CAHN's performance in the play-off round: "Watching the playoff match, CAHN played very well indeed. They can definitely make a difference if they hit peak form at the right time." These responses show that despite facing a big challenge, the Vietnamese representative still receives expectations from the region.

Many Southeast Asian fans also view CAHN as a common representative of the region. One fan sent a message: "CAHN represents not only Vietnam but also the Southeast Asian region. Give us great matches!" Another opinion frankly admitted: "This is truly an extreme challenge for the Vietnamese team, having to face up to 5 Japanese teams."

CAHN entered the official group stage after a 2-0 victory over Adelaide United in the qualifying round, with goals from Hoàng Hên and Koko. This is a historic milestone as the police team enters the official group stage of the AFC Champions League Elite for the first time. In this round, each team plays 8 matches against 8 different opponents, consisting of 4 home games and 4 away games.

Although they consider the upcoming journey very difficult, Southeast Asian fans still show their support for CAHN. "Play well, Southeast Asian fans are always cheering for you!" is a notable encouragement before Quang Hải and his teammates step into the matches against a series of Asian giants.