Victory was snatched from Al Gharafa right at the death on Matchday One, with UAE's Sharjah FC scoring twice in stoppage time to consign the Qatari side to a 4-3 defeat.

It was a heartbreaking loss and Al Gharafa, who failed to advance from the League Stage last season, will count on home ground advantage to see off the challenge of Al Shorta.

The Iraqi outfit were also left to rue dropped points against another Qatari side - Al Sadd SC - in their opener two weeks ago.

It was a case of two points lost at home and Al Shorta - who were also eliminated at the League Stage last season - know they need to get up and running if they are to enjoy a prolonged run in the competition.

They, however, have never won an away game in the AFC Champions League.