Dubai:Shabab Al Ahli maintained their perfect record in the AFC Champions League Elite 2026/27 with a decisive 2-0 victory over Islamic Republic of Iran's Esteghlal FC at the Rashid Stadium on Tuesday. The United Arab Emirates side advanced to nine points, while Esteghlal's winning streak came to an end.
According to Wam, Shabab Al Ahli had an early opportunity when Wout Faes sent a through ball to Mohammad Juma at the top of the area in the 10th minute; however, the Esteghlal defense muscled Juma out of possession. In the 14th minute, Kauan Santos nearly broke through Esteghlal's defense by sending Sardar Azmoun through on goal, but Esteghlal goalkeeper Habib Far Abbasi successfully denied the forward.
Esteghlal's first chance came in the 17th minute when Saleh Hardani's free-kick was caught by Shabab goalkeeper Matheus Donelli. Moments later, Breno failed to connect with a curling delivery from Santos. Shabab had another missed opportunity in the 24th minute when Santos' set-piece found Saeid Ezatolahi, who volleyed over the bar.