Odisha FC, the champions of the 2023-24 Indian Women’s League, has secured its spot in the preliminary stages of the AFC Women’s Champions League 2024-25. The official draw ceremony on Thursday placed them in Group B alongside Etihad Club (Jordan) and Lion City Sailors FC (Singapore).
This marks the second time an Indian team participates in the continental tournament, following Gokulam Kerala’s previous appearances in the erstwhile AFC Women’s Club Championship. Gokulam Kerala achieved a third-place finish in 2021 and secured second place in the group stage in 2023.
Odisha FC’s preliminary matches will be held in Jordan, as Etihad Club is the host team for Group B. The top team from each group will advance to the group stage.
Should Odisha FC secure the top spot in the preliminary stage and qualify for the group stage, they will be placed in Group C. This group comprises Urawa Red Diamonds Ladies (Japan), Taichung Blue Whale Women’s Football Team (Chinese Taipei), and the host team, Ho Chi Minh City Women’s FC (Vietnam).
The Group Stage will take place from October 6 to 12, featuring three groups of four teams in a centralized league format. The preliminary stage matches are scheduled for August 25 to 31.
