Bahraini Duo Target Knockout Spots on Final Matchday

Muharraq host Esteghlal, Al Khaldiya face Arkadag in AFC Champions League 2

Bahrain’s representatives Muharraq and Al Khaldiya will be in action tomorrow as the AFC Champions League Two group stage reaches its decisive final round, with both matches kicking off at 7 PM.

In Group A, Muharraq host Esteghlal FC (IRN) at Shaikh Ali Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Stadium in Arad, knowing that a positive result will secure their place in the Round of 16. Nandinho’s side sit second on seven points, two ahead of Esteghlal, and will look to build on their resilience shown in their previous outing.

The Bahrain champions drew 2-2 away to Al Wasl FC on November 5, twice taking the lead before being pegged back late by the UAE side. That result kept Al Wasl top of the group but underlined Muharraq’s attacking threat and ability to compete under pressure — qualities they will hope to carry into this decisive home fixture.

In Group B, Al Khaldiya travel to face FK Arkadag (TKM) at Arkadag Stadium, with qualification still very much in their own hands. Al Khaldiya are second on six points in a tightly packed group and know that victory will guarantee progression to the knockout stage. 

Al Khaldiya’s most recent match ended in a 0-0 home draw against PFC Andijon on November 5. Despite creating several scoring opportunities, they were kept at bay by solid defending and impressive goalkeeping. The stalemate, however, ensured the team remained firmly in contention heading into the final matchday. Their preparations were further shaped by a coaching change: on November 15, head coach Ali Ashoor stepped down, with Tunisian Lassaad Chabbi taking over shortly afterward.