Sharjah and Shabab Al Ahli will compete in AFC Elite

Sharjah heads into the encounter following a dramatic 4-3 win over Al Gharafa in the opening round, during which two late goals secured their victory. Despite a domestic setback in the ADNOC Pro League after losing 2-1 to Al Wasl, Sharjah are determined to strengthen their continental credentials.

The reigning champions of the AFC Champions League 2 recently announced the signing of Venezuelan forward Saúl Guarirapa from Russia’s FC Sochi, adding more firepower to their campaign. However, history favours Al Sadd, who remain unbeaten against Sharjah in two previous meetings and have gone 16 games without defeating Emirati clubs in the competition.

Shabab Al Ahli meets Al Ittihad in Jeddah

Shabab Al Ahli will face Saudi Arabia’s Al Ittihad at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah at 10:15pm UAE time. According to the AFC, this will be the first-ever meeting between the two sides.

Shabab Al Ahli are looking for their first win of the tournament after a 1-1 draw with Iran’s Tractor in the opening round, while Al Ittihad also seek redemption following a 2-1 loss to Al Wahda last week in Abu Dhabi.

The Saudi side will be without their French coach Laurent Blanc, who departed after a league defeat to Al Nassr on Friday.

Current group standings

Al Ahli Saudi leads the West Zone table with three points from one match, ahead of Sharjah, Al Hilal, and Al Wahda on goal difference. Al Sadd, Shabab Al Ahli, Al Shorta, and Tractor each have zero points from one match.