A crucial AFC Champions League Two matchup is set for Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at 23:00 WIB, when Esteghlal F.C. hosts Al Wasl at the iconic Azadi Stadium in Tehran. The match brings together two teams in contrasting situations: Esteghlal is fighting from mid-table to keep their qualification hopes alive, while Al Wasl arrives as the current group leader with a steady and convincing run in the competition.
The atmosphere is expected to be intense from the opening whistle. With pressure from the standings and the backing of tens of thousands of home fans, Esteghlal cannot afford a cautious approach. Only a win will keep their campaign alive. Al Wasl, on the other hand, needs only to stay consistent to strengthen their grip at the top of the group.
Esteghlal enters this fixture in strong form, collecting four wins and one draw from their last five matches across all competitions. That momentum could be a turning point after their heavy defeat in the first group encounter against Al Wasl.
Al Wasl has been dominant in the continental competition, but their recent overall form has dipped. Four consecutive draws followed by a loss in the domestic cup reveal a decline in attacking efficiency. However, based on their performance in the AFC Champions League Two alone, they remain the clear favorite.
Summary of the preview:
Esteghlal is rising with impressive form both domestically and continentally
Al Wasl remains stable in continental play but less convincing in recent matches
Both sides seek victory for different purposes: survival vs consistency
Al Wasl sits at the top of the table with 10 points from four matches, scoring 12 goals and conceding just 4. Their attacking sharpness has been the key difference in the group.
Esteghlal currently occupies third place with 4 points and a goal difference of 4:9. With two defeats already, their qualification chances are slipping. A win against the group leader would significantly change their trajectory.
Standings Details:
Al Wasl: 10 points | Goal record: 12:4
Esteghlal: 4 points | Goal record: 4:9
Positions: Al Wasl 1st, Esteghlal 3rd
Esteghlal F.C.
Esteghlal has shown impressive consistency in their last five outings, winning three and drawing twice.
Last 5 matches:
2–1 vs Padyab — Win
1–1 vs Al Wehdat — Draw
3–1 vs Aluminium Arak — Win
3–0 vs Fajr Sepasi — Win
2–0 vs Al Wehdat — Win
Al Wasl
Al Wasl’s recent run reveals a decline in offensive productivity, with four straight draws followed by a defeat.
Last 5 matches:
0–0 vs Ajman — Draw
0–0 vs Al Jazira — Draw
2–2 vs Al-Muharraq — Draw
1–1 vs Khorfakkan — Draw
2–3 vs Dibba Al Fujairah — Loss