Iran's Esteghlal to host AFC Champions League Elite home matches in Basra

BASRA, Iraq — Iranian football club Esteghlal will play its home matches in the AFC Champions League Elite group stage at Basra International Stadium in Iraq during the 2026 season, the club announced. The decision follows the Asian Football Confederation's ruling that Iranian teams must host their matches at neutral venues. The club said Basra was selected because of its geographic proximity to Iran and easier travel access for Esteghlal supporters. Esteghlal management also cited the city's sports infrastructure as suitable for matches at the Asian level. Basra International Stadium has previously hosted regional and international fixtures and meets the conditions required for AFC-supervised matches. The club did not specify the dates of the games or the opponents Esteghlal will face in the group stage.