Sharjah will not be lacking in confidence after their Matchday Five 1-0 triumph against defending champions Al Ahli Saudi FC, which revived their hopes after having suffered two successive defeats.

They are, however, winless in their last two meetings with Al Hilal and will have to be defensively resolute against a side who have been scoring for fun this season.

Al Hilal, who confirmed Round of 16 qualification with three matches to spare, will want to maintain their winning run as they seek a fifth Asian title.

A sixth consecutive win will send a clear warning that they are the team to beat in this season's race for the title.