Today's Edition
KUUMAR SHYAM (ABU DHABI)
Former two-time Asian Champions League champions Al Ain and their Dubai neighbours Al Wasl return to continental action for Matchday Two of the AFC Champions League Elite’s league phase on Monday.
While Al Ain have travelled to Iraq, Al Wasl are home to Saudi Arabia outfit Al Ahli. Both UAE clubs are seeking decisive results to shape their early campaign trajectories.
Air Force SC vs Al Ain FC
Former AFC Champions League winners Al Ain travel full of confidence to the Basra International Stadium following a statement performance in their opening fixture.
The UAE powerhouse dismantled Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr 4-0 in the first round’s games, delivering a clinical display in front of goal despite enjoying less possession.
In contrast, hosts Air Force enter the fixture in desperate search of momentum. The Iraqi side suffered a 1-0 defeat away to Uzbekistan’s PFC Neftchi in their continental opener and have made a sluggish start to the defence of their domestic Iraq Stars League title, registering just two victories from nine matches.
While the home side desperately require a positive result to kickstart their season, an in-form Al Ain side will view the trip as an ideal opportunity to consolidate their position near the top of the standings.
Al Wasl vs Al Ahli Saudi
At the Zabeel Stadium in Dubai, reigning UAE Pro League champions Al Wasl host defending continental champions Al Ahli Saudi, with both sides eager to secure their first victory of the campaign.
Al Wasl will be keen to redeem themselves before their home supporters after a 2-1 opening-match loss to Saudi Arabia’s Al Qadsiah in Dammam, where Leandro Spadacio’s late stoppage-time strike proved merely a consolation.
Meanwhile, Al Ahli arrive in Dubai looking to build momentum after escaping with a point in their opener against Uzbekistan's Pakhtakor, courtesy of a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser from Feras Al Brikans.
As Al Ahli target an unprecedented third consecutive continental crown, Al Wasl will rely on home advantage to disrupt the holders and kickstart their Asian campaign.
