Heydari scores early winner in Esteghlal victory [VIDEO]

Persianfootball.com – TEHRAN, Iranian giants Esteghlal got off to a sweet start, edging out Buriram of Thailand in the first leg of the Asian Champions League quarterfinals at the Azadi Stadium in Tehran.

Less than two minutes in the match, Heydari put the hosts ahead, when his right footed cross snuck past Buriram keeper Tedsungnoen, deflecting off the post and in the back of the net.

Veteran striker Farhad Majidi had a great chance to the double the Blues’ score eight minutes later, but his effort from just inside the box flew over the crossbar.

The first half finished in a fairly mellow state, although the second half got off to an exciting start when Jesus Berrocal’s header just was parried away well by Esteghlal keeper, Mehdi Rahmati.

In the 66th minute Esteghlal came close to doubling their lead, when Jlloyd Samuel’s fabulous 35 yard attempt went just wide. Samuel had an extremely positive influence on the match for the home side, almost involved with creating every chance for the Tehran based club.

Nine minutes later, Heydari came close to scoring a brace, when his beautiful right footed volley went just too high of the crossbar.

Defender Osmar Barba’s left footed hit from 30 yards came near to putting 95,000 Iranian fans in silence, though keeper Mehdi Rahmati excellently pushed the strike out for a corner.

With the loss things looks tough for Buriram, as they Thai side failed to score, and must come out of the second leg with a win in September. Elsewhere in the Champions league, Al Ahli of Saudi Arabia tied 1-1 with with FC Seoul of South Korea.

Below you can find the highlights from PFDC TV.