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Qatar’s representatives in the AFC Champions League have been handed a stern test in the AFC Champions League this season. The draw took place earlier today at AFC headquarters in Kuala Lumpur.<br />
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Al Rayyan and Lekhwiya have progressed straight to the group stage, after winning the QSL title and Emir Cup competitions last season.<br />
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Al Rayyan have been drawn in group D and will take on Al Hilal of Saudi Arabia, Persepolis of Iran whilst Michael Laudrups side will also face the winner of the first playoff tie.<br />
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As for Lekhwiya, they have drawn into group B and will take on Esteghlal Khuzestan of Iran, Al Jazira of the UAE and the winner of the second playoff tie.<br />
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El Jaish and Al Sadd will have to play in a playoff match before progressing to the group stage of the competition.  Last season’s semifinalists El Jaish will face Uzbek side Bunyodkor in a playoff. If Sabri Lamouchi’s side progress they will be drawn in group with Al Ahli  of Saudi Arabia,  Zobahan  from Iran and last season’s finalists Al Ain from the UAE.<br />
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As for Al Sadd they will play Iranian side Esteghlal in a playoff. If they Wolves are to progress they will be drawn into group A where they will face Al Ahli of the UAE,  Lokomotiov from Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabian side Al Tawoun.