Shortly after guiding South Korea's Pohang Steelers to the title, Farias surprisingly signed for Al Ahli, who finished third in the Saudi League last season.

"We all know the AFC Champions League is tough, but we will do our best to ensure enough points from the beginning and secure a seat in the second round," said Farias.

"I hope that I can double my own achievement and win the title with Al Ahli after we celebrated with the Korean team in the previous competition."

Despite facing the tough trip to Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium, Esteghal coach Samad Marfavi has backed his experienced squad to make a successful start to their Group A campaign after falling in the group stage last season.

"I think both teams have a chance and I have spent enough time monitoring the Jeddah side and I believe that they have done the same," said former Esteghlal striker Marfavi.

"We have good players with good experience who can play for 90 minutes under pressure and they know how to win the game."

At Mohamed Bin Zayid Stadium in Abu Dhabi, Al Jazira will be without UAE defender Rashed Abdulrehman due to injury to face Qatar League leaders Al Gharafa, but Brazilian coach Abel Braga remains confident.

Al Jazira are currently battling with Al Wahda at the top of the UAE League and brought an end to a mini slump in form recently with victory over 2003 Asian Champions League winners Al Ain.

"Though Rashed Abdulrehman is out we do have a quality bench so that is not a worry," said Braga. "Everyone knows Gharafa are a strong side, they are an organised team and play modern football.

"They know our game and so do we but we are here to win. We play every game to win it and this game will be no different."

Al Gharafa coach Caio Junior, who has concerns over the fitness of Bilal Mohammad, admits he would be happy to leave Mohammad Bin Zayed Stadium with a point.

"I know Braga is a very clever coach," he said. "But we will not change our style of play which is to create chances to score. We have a good defence and we will have to prove ourselves."