Esteghlal has begun Group D in fine fashion, having picked up five points from its opening three games. That tally is even more impressive when considering it has yet to play at its imposing Azadi Stadium, after claiming impressive draws away at Al Rayyan and Al Ain and beating Al Hilal in Oman.
The Iranian giant currently sits two points clear at the top of the standings ahead of back-to-back home fixtures with Al Ain and Al Rayyan, the-afc.com wrote.
As ever, fans are sure to turn out in their tens of thousands and victory on Monday, followed by another in three weeks’ time, would surely see Esteghlal confirm its place in the knockout rounds.