Persepolis to face Al Hilal without three key players

Tehran Times – MUSCAT, Iran’s Persepolis have a difficult task against Al Hilal of Saudi Arabia because their three key players are absent for the crucial match.

Persepolis captain Seyyed Jalal Hosseini and the team’s playmaker Soroush Rafiei are suspended for the match after receiving second yellow card during Al Rayyan match in Tehran.

The Reds’ defender Mohammad Ansari is also a doubt for this match due to a foot injury.

Persepolis will meet Al Hilal in Matchday 5 of the AFC Champions League at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Muscat, Oman on Monday.

Persepolis drew 1-1 with Al Hilal on Matchday One and to seal their last 16 berth must overcome their Saudi opponents.

If Persepolis fail to defeat Al Hilal, Al Rayyan would also advance with a win over Al Wahda.