AFC Truncates ISL Continental Slots Due to Shortened Season

• The AFC has recognized the shortened 2025-26 Indian Super League (ISL) season, impacting continental qualification slots.
• Winners of India's top two divisions will now earn indirect slots in the AFC Champions League 2 through zonal qualifiers.
• Clubs cannot meet the 24-match requirement for direct AFC Champions League 2 qualification due to the delayed season start.
• Most clubs are expected to play 16 matches, including 13 in the ISL and a minimum of three in the AIFF Super Cup.
• The AFC clarified that member associations failing eligibility criteria will only receive indirect slots, converting direct slots.

Why It Matters: AFC has reduced ISL's continental qualification to indirect slots due to the shortened 2025-26 season.