Josiel fired the hosts into the lead in the 35th minute but their slim hopes of making the knockout stages seemed all over when substitute Waleed Al Gizani headed in the equaliser with nine minutes to go.

But Al Ahli were reduced to 10 players with the dismissal of Antonio Caio and, with six minutes to spare, Josiel fired in the winner from the spot to clinch all three points and help his side into second spot - two points behind group leaders Al Karama, who have a game in hand.

Al Wahda started the brighter and could have taken the lead in the 20th minute but Josiel's close-range header went wide.

But the Brazilian did break the deadlock in the 35th minute, heading home at the second time of asking.

Brazilian midfielder Pinga picked out his compatriot with a cross from the left and, although Josiel's header forced a fine reaction save from Al Ahli goalkeeper Abdu Al Bsisi, the striker picked up the rebound and dispatched it into the roof of the net to put his team ahead.

Brazilian midfielder Antonio Caio came close to levelling for the Saudis five minutes before the break but his shot flashed past the left upright.

Al Ahli went close again in first-half stoppage time as Saheb Al Abdullah's powerful effort was tipped over by Al Wahda goalkeeper Nadir Lamyaghri.

The visitors continued to press after the break but could not create any real opportunities.

But their hard work was rewarded with nine minutes remaining when Al Gizani headed home a cross by Nasir Al Selimito make it 1-1.

However, their joy was shortlived as, just 60 seconds later, Caio was dismissed after receiving his second yellow card.

And Al Ahli's misery was compounded minutes later when Mohammed Eid fouled Josiel and the referee pointed to the spot.

The Brazilian dusted himself down and fired home to give his side their first win of the campaign.