The quarterfinals draw of the the Asian Champions League is due to be drawn on May 25.

“Mainly it is an open draw. But we have only one exception, which is the case of having two clubs from the same country. In this case, we apply the country protection rule,” AFC Competitions Director Tokuaki Suzuki told the-afc.com.

“On the other hand, this rule doesn’t apply if one country has three or more clubs in the quarter-finals.”

Korea Republic is represented in the last eight by defending champions Pohang Steelers, 2006 champions Jeonbuk Motors, Suwon Bluewings and Seongnam Ilhwa.

Saudi Arabia has Al Hilal and Al Shabab in the draw while Qatar’s Al Gharafa and Zob Ahan, of Iran complete the line-up.

Added Suzuki: “We have invited all the participating clubs to send representatives for the draw. There is a lot of interest and excitement as everyone is waiting for the draw result.”

May 25 will witness the draws for the quarter-finals and semi-finals of the ACL. While country protection exists for the quarter-finals, it is completely open for the last four.