Iranian club Traktor Sazi FC arrived in Jeddah on Sunday to face Shabab Al-Ahli in the AFC Champions League Elite round of 16, despite ongoing regional tensions. The team's journey from Tabriz through Turkey raised questions about their participation after Iran banned travel to "hostile" countries following missile strikes into Saudi Arabia.

Coach Mohammad Rabiei acknowledged the complicated situation ahead of Tuesday's match, noting his team hasn't played competitively since February 28 due to the suspended Iranian league. The 2025 Iranian league champions face significant challenges preparing for this crucial match against UAE opposition.

Meanwhile, Al Hilal suffered a 4-2 penalty shootout loss to Al-Sadd after a 3-3 draw in extra time, with Karim Benzema missing a crucial penalty. Al Ahli advanced with a 1-0 win over Al-Duhail, courtesy of Riyad Mahrez's 117th-minute goal. The tournament will continue in Jeddah through the final on April 25.