AFC Champions League Elite
Yuri Cesar’s 22nd-minute strike at the Rashid Stadium sealed victory for UAE's Shabab Al Ahli, who are aiming to go all the way after falling in the semi-finals last season.
#ACLElite | Shabab Al Ahli (UAE) 1-0 Tractor FC (IRN)
"The team achieved the objective, which was to win, but we should have scored more goals as we dominated the game.
"It was a tough game but we had some excellent spells. We were clearly in control for the first 35 minutes before losing some of that grip towards the end of the first half, a recurring issue in recent matches that we need to address," said Jardine.
Despite Shabab Al Ahli's dominance, Islamic Republic of Iran's Tractor had their moments and Jardine felt that his side could have avoided the tenseness by finishing their chances.
"In the second half, we had the chances to put the game to bed early but we didn't. However, I believe we controlled about 80 percent of the match.
"In a tournament like this, featuring teams that truly earned their place here, we must appreciate the players' efforts and their ability to dictate play for the majority of the game. I am satisfied with the team's performance and the number of chances created against a strong, well-organised opponent.
"However, we can certainly improve our attacking efficiency, that is one area for development, and I am confident it will get better as the matches progress."
Shabab Al Ahli next play Saudi Arabia's Al Ittihad Club on October 13 while Tractor meet Qatar's Al Shamal SC a day earlier.
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