AFC Champions League Review: Al Jazira, Al Sadd claim first-leg wins

A dramatic late goal helped Al Jazira to a first-leg win in the AFC Champions League last 16, while Al Sadd were also victorious on Monday.

Khalifa Alhammadi scored a 96th-minute goal to see Al Jazira overcome Persepolis 3-2 in Abu Dhabi.

Godwin Mensha's second-half penalty looked set to give the Iranian visitors the upper-hand after Henk ten Cate's Al Jazira had come from behind to lead 2-1.

But there was late drama, Alhammadi heading in a Mbark Boussoufa set-piece to give the hosts a hard-fought win.

In Doha, a brace from Boualem Khoukhi led Al Sadd to a 2-1 win over Al Ahli.

Khoukhi produced two good finishes in the opening half-hour and the hosts held on for their win despite Muhannad Asiri's 47th-minute goal.

The second legs of the round-of-16 ties will be played next week.