AFC Champions League Preview: Al Wasl Eyes Upset Against In-Form Ivan Toney and Al Ahli

UAE clubs are showing renewed potential to challenge for honours in the AFC Champions League, starting with Al Ain's impressive 4-0 victory over Al Nassr last month. Now, Al Wasl prepares to host the reigning champions of Asia, Al Ahli, at Zabeel on Monday night.

Al Ahli arrives with English striker Ivan Toney in scintillating form, boasting 11 goals in eight games at the start of the Saudi Pro League season. However, the Saudi giants have experienced vulnerabilities, losing three of those eight matches and undergoing a rebuilding phase under new coach Marino Pusic, following the departures of key players like Franck Kessie and Riyad Mahrez. Meanwhile, Al Wasl boasts a strong domestic start, led by Iranian striker Mehdi Taremi, and aims to exploit any fragile confidence in their opponents.

Elsewhere in the competition, Al Ain looks to recover after recent domestic setbacks in the Adib Cup ahead of their match against Al Quwa Al Jawiya in Basra. Additionally, Shabab Al Ahli prepares for a high-stakes clash against Al Ittihad in Jeddah, seeking redemption following previous continental heartbreak involving Guilherme Bala.