Basra: Iran’s Esteghlal secured a 3-0 victory over Qatar’s Al Sadd on Monday at Basra International Stadium, Esteghlal’s designated home ground, in the first round of the AFC Champions League. Esteghlal opened the scoring through Yasser Asani in the 9th minute, before Saad Saharkhizan added a second in the 47th minute. Ismail Gholizadeh sealed the win with a third goal in the 95th minute, securing all three points for the Iranian side.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Esteghlal now tops the group with three points, while Al Sadd remains at the bottom of the group with no points.