Emad Mohammed opened the scoring for Sepahan in the 39th minute and Brazilian Fabio Januario doubled the lead at the stroke of half time. Mali’s Founeke Sy pulled one back for the losers eight minutes into the restart.
Sepahan, who drew with Esteghlal 1-1 in the opener and were held goalless by Saba Battery in the second round, will host Qatar’s Al Sadd in the continental clash on September 14 before travelling to Doha for the return leg on September 28.
Saba Battery’s 2-0 victory over Rah Ahan saw them go atop the 18-team table on goal difference. Esteghlal, who defeated Mes 2-1, are second and Foolad are third. All the three teams are on seven points.