Such was Al Ahli's dominance on the continental stage in the last two seasons that they only lost one of 30 matches, a run which saw them winning their last five games.

Al Ahli scored 27 goals enroute to winning last season's title, the most by any team in the competition. In fact, they scored 25+ goals in each of their last two campaigns (34 in 2024-25), having not done so in any prior season of the competition.

Pakhtakor, however, will relish the chance of locking horns with Al Ahli, having regained their position at the forefront of Uzbekistan football after a couple of difficult seasons.

They have beaten Al Ahli twice in four previous meetings but will do well to tread with caution, with the Saudi Pro League having a wealth of talent at their disposal.

Al Ahli Saudi FC (KSA) v Pakhtakor (UZB)
Venue: King Abdullah Sports City Stadium (Jeddah)
Kick-off: Monday, 21:15 (UTC+3)