Bezerra scores his first goal with Shabab Al-Ahli after leaving Zamalek

Shabab Al-Ahli secured an important victory against Iranian side Esteghlal with a score of 2-0, in the match that took place in the third round of the AFC Champions League. The team continues its strong start in the tournament with a perfect record.

The Emirati team scored two goals in the second half, with Mateusão opening the scoring in the 69th minute, before Brazilian Juan Bezerra added the second goal in the 84th minute, confirming the victory for the hosts.

Juan Bezerra's goal carried special significance, as it was his first for Shabab Al-Ahli since transferring from Zamalek SC during the current season. The player continues to contribute to his new team, having previously assisted two goals against Al-Nasr in the AFC Champions League, along with providing a key pass during the victory over Al-Ain by a score of 2-0 in the domestic league.

Second-half changes proved decisive in the match.

Shabab Al-Ahli successfully capitalized on the changes made by the coaching staff during the second half, as the introduction of Mateusão and Juan Bezerra invigorated the attacking side, allowing the players to score the two goals of the match and secure the three points.

With this victory, Shabab Al-Ahli has raised its tally to nine points from three matches, achieving a perfect score, to equal Al Ain at the top of the Western Group, which includes 16 teams, and enhances its chances of qualifying for the next round.

In contrast, Esteghlal's points total remains at six, placing them fifth in the group standings, after they failed to come back against the Emirati team, which exploited the home advantage and the support of their fans to achieve a valuable victory in the race for qualification to the knockout stages.