“As we expected, the match was strong and difficult against a physically robust team. Esteghlal were not only strong in physical confrontations but also effective in set-pieces, scoring two goals from very few chances,” said Jaissle. 

“However, the result is positive, and most importantly, we remain unbeaten in the tournament.”

Jaissle, however, admitted that Al Ahli were undone by their lack of precision in the final third.

"If we look at the statistics, we didn't only rely on penalty kicks to reach Esteghlal's goal. We reached the final third and created many chances, but we lacked the final touch.”

Despite letting victory slip away, Esteghlal head coach Pitso Mosimane was pleased with his team’s performance.

"My team took the lead twice and we caused problems for the opposition, forcing them to come back twice. I am completely satisfied with the players' performance,” said Mosimane.

"The match was as challenging as we had anticipated. We faced a big team like Al Ahli in their home stadium in Jeddah. My team believed in their abilities and showed great composure by taking the lead twice.”

The draw took the Tehran-based side to five points and with plenty to do with two rounds remaining.