Heidelberg in Asia? This is how the NPL champs plan to get there

Heidelberg United have made their intentions clear; they want to play in the AFC Champions League Two next season.

The NPL VIC champions are in the mix to sensationally feature in the Asian competition, having been granted that spot by Football Australia as Australia Cup finalists.

With 2025 Australia Cup champions Newcastle Jets winning the A-League Men premiership, they have moved up to the lucrative AFC Champions League Elite.

That has now freed up a spot in the ACL Two, with John Anastasiadis’ Heidelberg set to qualify should they satisfy the AFC’s requirements.

FA’s decision is unprecedented as the semi-pro Bergers look to go head-to-head with some of the continent’s biggest clubs, having gone on a giant-slaying run en route to the Australia Cup decider - upstaging Western Sydney Wanderers, Wellington Phoenix and Auckland FC.

Heidelberg addressed the situation on Friday and while there are “significant hurdles to overcome”, the NPL powerhouse have vowed to “rise to the challenge”.

“Heidelberg United Alexander FC is delighted to have the opportunity to pursue participation in the AFC Champions League 2 and acknowledges the importance of satisfying all assessment criteria, with significant work already underway to ensure full compliance,” the statement read.

“This is a moment of immense pride for everyone connected to our club. Our journey to the Final of the Australia Cup was built on belief, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to representing our community with distinction. To now qualify for the opportunity to take our place on the Asian stage is a testament to the hard work and ambition that defines who we are.

“We would also like to take this opportunity to thank Football Australia, Football Victoria, City of Banyule and other key stakeholders supporting us throughout this journey.

“In addition, we congratulate the Newcastle Jets on winning the Australia Cup and being crowned A-League Premiers, which has provided us with this opportunity to qualify for the AFC Champions League 2.

“It goes without saying that we embrace this opportunity with excitement and determination. The chance to compete at this level is not something we take lightly. It is an opportunity to showcase our club, our history, and our passionate supporter base on one of the biggest stages in the game. More importantly, it gives every club outside the A-League the belief that this is possible and not just a dream.

“As a club that has proudly represented its community for decades, we see this as more than just a football opportunity. It is a chance to represent Victorian football, the National Premier Leagues, the strength of the broader Australian football landscape, and the community as a whole.

“We remain fully committed to complying with the strict criteria and standards set by the Asian Football Confederation and Football Australia. Work is well underway across all areas of the club to ensure ongoing compliance with licensing, infrastructure, and operational requirements, including securing a suitable venue that meets AFC standards.

“We would, however, like to emphasise that there are still significant hurdles to overcome before our place in the AFC Champions League 2 can be secured via the strict assessment process.

“Heidelberg United stands ready to rise to the challenge, and we will do everything possible to ensure we represent our club, our community, and Australian football with pride on the continental stage.

“We thank our members, supporters, partners, and the broader community for their unwavering support.

“This journey belongs to all of us.”