Teams increased to 40 across 10 groups Defending champions Ulsan Hyundai facing tough competition from former winners Almost four months after Korea Republic's Ulsan Hyundai defeated IR Iran's Persepolis FC in the final of the 2020 AFC Champions League, Asia’s elite clubs will embark on the quest for a new title with the start of the group stage this Wednesday. With the number of teams increased to 40 and several clubs participating for the first time, this year’s tournament is expected to throw up a surprise or two. To mark the occasion, FIFA.com previews the latest edition of Asia’s premier club competition.