AFC – ESFAHAN, Iranian side Sepahan will face Play-Off qualifiers Al Nasr of the United Arab Emirates for the second consecutive season in the AFC Champions League Group C on Wednesday.

Sepahan coach Zlatko Kranjcar believes that his side are in better condition now than they were last year when they reached the quarter-finals although he still expects a tough battle against the side that they edged 1-0 a year ago thanks to Bruno Correa’s late winner.

“We watched Al Nasr’s play-off win against Lokomotiv in the stadium and we analysed their match,” said the Croatian. “They have recruited some good players like Bruno Correa in order to enhance their technical quality but we will take advantage of playing at home and show attacking play from the kick-off.

“I don’t want to belittle our opponent at all but I am sure we are a better team.”

Al Nasr beat Lokomotif 3-2 in the play-offs but they have struggled of late in the UAE Pro League with four defeats in their last five games. However, coach Walter Zenga feels that his team are ready for the match.

“We are completely ready and we have travelled to Esfahan well-prepared. We are playing against a strong side but we are looking to gain a good result from the match,” said the Italian.

”I don’t think there would be a coach who sends his side for a draw. Everyone wants victory and so do we. We experienced our first appearance in the AFC Champions League last year but this year, with better knowledge, we seek better results.”