“Persepolis will win ACL title if we beat Al Hilal”: Branko Ivankovic

Tehran Times – TEHRAN, Persepolis football coach Branko Ivankovic says that they will lift the 2017 AFC Champions League title if they defeat Al Hilal.

The Iranian giants will face Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal in Abu Dhabi, the UAE on September 26 in the first leg of the ACL semi-final and meet the team on October 17 in Muscat in the second leg.

Persepolis suffered a 1-0 home defeat to Paykan in Iran Professional League on Sunday.

“To play in domestic league after the AFC Champions League’s competition is always difficult. I had already said in the pre-match news conference the match with Paykan would be dangerous for us,” Branko said.

“Al Hilal are a strong team and I had previously said they would qualify for the semis. We also are proud of being in this stage and we are going to enjoy our matches,” the Croat added.

Persepolis captain Jalal Hosseini missed the matches against Al Ahli in ACL quarters due to his suspension and injury, respectively.

“Hosseini will not play against Sepahan on Wednesday but I hope that he will be fit for the match against Al Hilal,” Branko concluded.