Al Ahli can take a huge step towards the last 16 of the Asian Champions League when they take on Esteghlal in a top-of-the-table clash in Tehran on Tuesday.
The Dubai club, runners-up in the competition two years ago, currently top Group A from the Iranians on the head-to-head rule and, with a victory, would almost guarantee progression to the knockout stages for only the second time in their history.
Ahli, who did not qualify for last year’s tournament, go into the match at the Azadi Stadium in fine form, unbeaten in nine matches across all competitions — a sequence that stretches back to February.
Esteghlal, two-time Asian champions, have been on a good run too, and sit third in the Iranian top flight, although they did lose last time out in the league, to Tractor Sazi on Thursday.
Ahli will also point to the fact they got the better of Esteghlal in February’s group opener at the Rashid Stadium as reason for optimism, when a Makhete Diop double sealed a late 2-1 win.
Cosmin Olaroiu’s side are seeking to end the 2016/17 season with a place in the last 16 having almost relinquished their Arabian Gulf League title. The reigning champions, who sit second domestically, are expected to surrender their UAE crown to Al Jazira this weekend, but know success against Esteghlal will help ease the disappointment. Ahli have already lifted silverware this campaign, winning the Arabian Gulf Cup earlier this month.
Elsewhere, Jazira host Qatar’s Lekhwiya at the Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium with little chance of progressing to the knockouts. The Arabian Gulf League leaders, who require a solitary point to seal a second UAE championship, have prioritised the domestic title and are therefore rooted to the bottom of Group B, six points off second place with only two matches remaining. Lekhwiya head the standings.
While Jazira’s immediate future seems assured, rumours surfaced this week linking manager Henk ten Cate with the vacant post at the Netherlands national team. However, on Monday the Dutchman refused to discuss the speculation, instead hinting he will remain at the Abu Dhabi club beyond the summer.
“The only thing I want to speak about is Al Jazira playing against Lekhwiya and winning the league,” Ten Cate said. “That’s the only thing that I am focused on.
“Other things are not on my mind. I don’t want to speak about something that is rumour. Next year, I promise you the team is going to be better and more mature and we will focus on the Champions League.”
jmcauley@thenational.ae
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