ACL: Esteghlal 3-0 Al Ahli

Iran’s Esteghlal have made it to the AFC Champions League round of 16, after dispatching Group A toppers, Al Ahli of Saudi Arabia,

According to Press TV, Esteghlal, who needed a victory with at least a 2 goal margin, opened the scoring through Mehdi Qaedi, who drilled-in a powerful low-drive from outside the box, on the half-hour mark.

Ali Karimi then headed-home from close range, to double the lead for the Capital Blues before the break.

And, Malian Striker, Cheick Diabate, sealed the win with a deserving 3rd, in the 54th minute.

The result means Esteghlal finish 2nd, behind confirmed Group A winners Al-Ahli, as a superior goal difference gave the Iranian side, the advantage over 3rd team, Al-Shorta of Iraq.

ME