Qatar’s Lekhwiya will look to continue their brilliant start in the AFC Champions League when they take on Al Fateh of Saudi Arabia in their first away match in Group B, today at Prince Abdullah bin Jalawi Stadium in Al Hasa.
Lekhwiya, managed by famous Danish coach Michael Laudrup launched their campaign with a 3-0 drubbing over UAE’s Al Jazira last week in Doha.
They are leading the group and will be targeting another three points to consolidate their top position.
Esteghlal Khouzestan FC of Iran are on the second spot courtesy to their 1-0 victory over Al Fateh.
The Qatari club who are also leading their country’s domestic league – Qatar Stars League (QSL) – can expect a tough fight from the Saudi Arabian side in front of their home crowd.
Both the teams are meeting for the first time but the experienced Lekhwiya must be heading in the game with a psychological advantage as Al Fateh have never won a game in the competition.
In addition, the Laudrup’s side have not lost their four previous games against the Saudi clubs in the tournament.
Their last defeat against a Saudi side came in April 2014 when they fell against Al Ittihad.
They have some in-form players including the trio captain Rodrigo Tabata, Youssef El Arabi and Youssef Msakni who are enjoying a wonderful season.
El Arabi and Msakni have already sent a caution to opposing sides in the event after scoring two and one goals respectively in the first match against Al Jazira.
Meanwhile, in other group B match today, Al Jazira will be seeking to make a comeback in the event after their heavy defeat in the opening game as they meet Esteghlal Khouzestan in their home tie at Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.
The leading Iranian club, on the other hand must be targeting a big victory with an eye on top position in the group.
