I guess the one positive about have AFC playing like they are and leading the comp is that the conversation might just arise again. Should AFC win the league and the finals series sometime soon then you can guarantee Foley and co will be asking why they can't be allowed to gain access to the next tier competition, be it AFC or OFC champs.
It has this to say about continental qualification:
AFC Champions League Qualification
A-League teams can qualify for the AFC Champions League, Asia’s top club competition. Usually, the Premiers and Champions earn spots to compete on the Asian stage.
- So it seems they are telling their fans they can qualify
- So it seems they are telling their fans they can qualify