[1] Lion City Sailors are the defending champions, having won the tournament in 2023 after defeating previous champions Hougang United 3–1 in the final.
Thai side BG Pathum United will join the competition.
[2][3] This is the 3rd time they will play in the competition after last appearing in 2009 and 2010.
The top 2 teams from each group advance to the semi-finals.
[4][5] BG Pathum United will host Geylang International and Lion City Sailors at the Jalan Besar Stadium as a neutral ground.