Asian Champions League: Group C – Persepolis vs. Al Wasl [Preview]

AFC – TEHRAN, Persepolis will be looking for a positive response from their defeat to Al Sadd two weeks ago when they face Al Wasl in Group C of the AFC Champions League at Azadi Stadium on Monday.

The Islamic Republic of Iran side began their campaign in fine fashion, defeating Nasaf 3-0 in Tehran, but were well beaten by Al Sadd in a 3-1 loss on Matchday Two. Persepolis, though, are strong at home, having not lost at Azadi Stadium since the 2012 group stage in a run that has now reached eight games.

Al Wasl have endured a difficult start to their first AFC Champions League since 2008, with Al Sadd coming from behind to claim a 2-1 victory in their first game and Nasaf defeating them in Uzbekistan two weeks ago.

Should the Emirati team come away from Tehran without a positive result, knockout stage qualification would be unlikely. Midfielder Ali Salmin is ruled out through suspension after picking up bookings in Al Wasl’s opening two games.

Note: The Persepolis run at home does take into account that they did not play in Iran against Saudi Arabian teams last year, and the statistic only includes matches played at Azadi Stadium.