5/6/2008
the-afc.com

ALEPPO – Having seen his team climb back into contention for a place in the quarter-finals after a dreadful start in this year’s AFC Champions League, Sepahan coach Jorvan Vieira is not about to let complacency creep in for the visit to Syria to face Al Ittihad Aleppo on Wednesday.

Last year’s runners-up were on the verge of elimination after losing their first two games in Group A, but back-to-back victories against Al Ittihad of Saudi Arabia have put the Iranian outfit three points behind group leaders Kuruvchi.

With a final home game to come against the Uzbek side in a fortnight’s time, Vieira knows a win in Syria this week is essential.

“We know our responsibilities, it’s very clear for us. We have to win the next two matches – it’s our only chance,” said the Brazilian.

Sepahan scored a resounding 5-0 victory when they visited Aleppo in the group stage last year but with a 2-0 home loss to the Syrians in March still fresh on his mind, Vieira expects a tough battle on Wednesday.

“They have a good team and they are at home,” said Vieira, who will be on sidelines despite suffering mild heart problems during the 1-0 win at Al Ittihad a fortnight ago.

“There is no such thing as a worst team in this competition as everyone is at a similar level.

“They have nothing to lose, they are fresher than us and since they know that they can’t win the group, the danger is not knowing the players that they will select for the game.”

Midfielder Farshad Bahadorani is suspended but injuries are of greater concern for Sepahan with striker Mahmoud Karimi and playmaker Moharram Navidkia out with long-term injuries and goalkeeper Abbas Mohammadi, defenders Hadi Aghily and Mohsen Bengar, midfielder Hadi Jafari and striker Emad Mohammed Ridha battling for fitness.

Al Ittihad have failed to build on their bright start and are out of the running after losing three consecutive games.

However, coach Tita Valeriu wants his players to give the home fans something to celebrate on Wednesday.

“After losing our previous two home matches, this is our final chance to win at home,” said the Romanian.

“We have a good chance but we must avoid the defensive mistakes that we made previously.

“Our team spirit is better after reaching the quarter-finals of the Syrian Cup and we are confident of getting a result against Sepahan after beating them in Esfahan.

“We know their style and their capabilities but we must be careful because they are still fighting for a place in the next round and will be looking to avenge their defeat in Iran.”

Striker Abdulfatah Al Agha and defender Wael Ayan are suspended after accumulating two cautions but defenders Majd Homsi and Salah Chahrour will return after serving their suspensions.