Shabab have already created history as it is the first time they have won their opening two AFC Champions League Elite matches and another victory will make them just the fourth side from the UAE to triumph in their first three continental games after Al Ain FC (2003 and 2023-24), Al Wahda FC (2007) and Al Jazira Club (2012).

They are also unbeaten in their prior two meetings with Esteghlal (W1 D1), with both these games taking place in 2017. In fact, Shabab are undefeated in 12 games against sides from the Islamic Republic of Iran (W8 D4), including their 1-0 win over Tractor FC on the opening matchday of this season.

Esteghlal, however, will be equally confident after opening their campaign with two wins for just the second time in their history.

They opened their campaign with an impressive 3-0 defeat of Qatar's Al Sadd SC and showed they can grind out results as well in the 2-1 victory against Al Gharafa SC.

Venue: Rashid Stadium (Dubai)

Kick-off: Tuesday, 20:00 (UTC+4)