2001–02 Asian Club Championship — final edition of Asia's top club tournament

Overview and format

Like other editions near the turn of the century, the competition combined regional qualifying rounds, group-stage matches and knockout ties to determine a champion. Clubs entered after winning or finishing high in their domestic leagues and domestic cup competitions. The contest tested squads over home-and-away fixtures and neutral-site matches as the calendar progressed.

Final and result

The championship culminated in a final played at the Azadi Stadium in Tehran. In an all-Korean pairing, Suwon Samsung Bluewings faced Anyang LG Cheetahs. The match finished scoreless after normal and extra time, and was decided by a penalty shootout. Suwon prevailed 0[4]–0[2] on penalties to claim the title.

This victory marked the second continental crown for Suwon Samsung Bluewings, consolidating their position among the leading clubs in Asian football at the time. For Anyang LG Cheetahs the run to the final was likewise a notable achievement in the club's international history.

Historical significance and legacy

The 2001–02 tournament is notable for being the final edition of the long-running Asian Club Championship. Soon after, the AFC introduced the restructured and expanded AFC Champions League, intended to raise competitive standards, commercial appeal and continental integration. The change brought new group formats, club licensing requirements and a broader emphasis on club professionalism.

• Edition: 21st and final Asian Club Championship.
• Champion: Suwon Samsung Bluewings (second title).
• Runner-up: Anyang LG Cheetahs.
• Final venue: Azadi Stadium, Tehran.
• Aftermath: Replaced by the AFC Champions League (see restructured competition).

Though the name changed, the competition's role as Asia's premier club tournament continued under the new format. The 2001–02 edition remains a milestone in Asian football history as the closing chapter of one era and the bridge to the modern continental club competition.