With only seven spots left after Al Ahli Saudi FC’s qualification, time is fast running out for both Mosimane and Shatskykh as they seek to navigate their respective sides into the knockout stage.
It is Al Ahli Saudi who Mosimane has to plot against on Matchday Six next week as the head coach from South Africa rued Monday’s dropped points.
“A little bit disappointed because we didn’t get the full points,” said Mosimane. “I feel this game was in our hands, especially in the second half, but we did not take the chances.
“I can never say I’m not happy with my team. They gave a good fight but the fight was a little bit late. We should have shown this fight a little bit earlier and put more pressure on Pakhtakor.
“Still, I’m very proud of my team. In Jeddah (against Al Ahli Saudi), we’re going to need the biggest fight. If we can bring that fight, maybe we can get something but it’s going to be difficult, this one was the one we should have won.”
The match at the neutral venue of Rashid Stadium saw limited openings created by either side with the result leaving Esteghlal on four points while Paktakor are one adrift.