Hanoi Police FC is positioned to qualify for the AFC Champions League Elite by clinching the V-League title in the 2025/26 season.
The opportunity to compete in the continent's most prestigious club tournament is opening up for Hanoi Police FC as AFC plans to expand the AFC Champions League Elite for the 2026–2027 season. If they become V-League champions, the capital's representative could secure a spot in Asia's top club competition.
According to the new proposal, the AFC Champions League Elite will increase its team count from 24 to 32, evenly divided between East and West zones, each with 16 clubs. This expansion not only enhances competitiveness but also allows more football nations, including Vietnam, to gain entry.
Currently, the V-League ranks 7th in the East region according to AFC's club ranking. With this position, the league champion is likely to be allocated a spot in the group stage or at least the play-off round of the AFC Champions League Elite. This marks significant progress compared to the past two seasons, when Vietnamese clubs only participated in AFC Champions League Two.
In this context, Hanoi Police FC holds a substantial advantage in the race for the V-League 2025/26 championship. The police department's team currently leads the standings with a safe margin over the chasing pack, demonstrating stability in both squad strength and performance.
Not only CAHN, but the competition behind them is also noteworthy with the presence of The Cong Viettel, Ninh Binh FC, and Hanoi FC. These are all clubs with quality squads, ready to compete for Asian Cup slots if opportunities expand.
Nevertheless, to turn this opportunity into reality, Vietnamese clubs—especially CAHN—need thorough preparation in finance, personnel, and strategy. Participating in the AFC Champions League Elite is not only a reward for the champion but also a comprehensive test of capability when facing Asia's top clubs.