ACL 2018 – Group D: Esteghlal Tehran vs. Al Rayyan [Preview]

AFC – TEHRAN, Victory for either Esteghlal or Al Rayyan when the pair clash in Group D of the AFC Champions League at Azadi Stadium on Monday would secure their passage into the knockout stage with a game to spare.

Esteghlal played out a 1-1 draw with Al Ain on their last appearance in Tehran on Matchday Four when 90,000 spectators turned out to see the Iranian giants maintain their unbeaten run and remain on top of the standings.

Al Rayyan talisman Rodrigo Tabata scored the decisive goal as the Qatari team defeated Al Hilal 2-1 to claim their first victory of what is also an undefeated campaign and move level on six points with Monday’s opponents.

With the sides playing out a 2-2 draw in the opening game of the group stage, three points for either ensures a better head-to-head record and would relieve any pressure going into the final round of fixtures.

Esteghlal, who have never lost at home to a Qatari side on the continent, warmed up for the game with a 2-1 league win over Naft Tehran on Thursday while Al Rayyan, who have had a two-week break, welcome Sebastian Soria back into the fold after the striker served a one-match ban.