TEHRANTIMES - Iran’s Esteghlal coach Amir Ghalenoei said a win against Al Ain of the United Arab Emirates could help them to qualify for the next round of the Asian Champions League (ACL).

Esteghlal will host Al Ain in Group D of ACL group stage on Wednesday in Tehran’s Azadi Stadium.

“In my opinion, Al Ain has been one of the strongest Arab teams in the last three years. Al Ain is the UAE’s title holder and remains at the top of the table in the current season. They have won their first game in the competition and are a well-organized team,” Ghalenoei said during the pre-match news conference.

“However, we are Esteghlal and are getting better week by week. Hopefully, our fans will come to stadium and support us. We will have to put them under pressure and stop their midfielders. We could pave our way if beat Al Ain in our home game,” the Esteghlal coach said.

Esteghlal keeper Mehdi Rahmati will be playing against Al Ain, but Khosro Heidari is doubtful for the match, the coach said.

“Heidari is 50-50 and we are waiting for his fitness test,” Ghalenoei said.