Machhindra FC president Sunil Kapali claimed in an interview video released by the club that the club has been preparing for the AFC Cup preliminary qualifiers.

He stated that the club as a whole would have to face the challenge of the continental qualifications and that the club will do so.

Kapali also expressed his delight at the fact that, despite winning the league the previous season, they were unable to participate in the qualifiers owing to AFC regulations, and that they have now been provided with the opportunity.

Machhindra are set to face Blue Star FC from Sri Lanka. Machhindra will host the Sri Lankan side at the Dasharath Stadium on April 5. The winner of that tie will face ATK Mohan Bagan from India in the second round.

The winner of the second round will go to the play-off round, where the winner will compete in the AFC Cup.

Machhindra booked their place in the qualifiers after remaining at the top of the table after the seventh round of matches in the ongoing Martyr's Memorial A Division League.