Dubai: Al Ahli were held to a goalless draw at home to Saudi Arabia’s Al Taawoun in their third Asian Champions League group game on Monday.
Both sides hit the woodwork in what was a disappointing show from the hosts, who, as Arabian Gulf League defending champions and 2015 losing ACL finalists, were expected to make light work of the visitors.
Al Taawoun, who punched above their weight to finish fourth in the Saudi league last season, are making their first appearance in the ACL this season after qualifying in place of third-placed finishing Saudi side Al Ittihad, who were disqualified for failing to meet licensing requirements.
Both sides are now on four points apiece in the middle of Group A, while Iran’s Esteghlal went top on six points after beating Uzbekistan’s Lokomotiv Tashkent 2-0 earlier on Monday, which left Lokomotiv bottom on three points.
Makhete Diop saw his mishit cross come back off the crossbar before the interval, and forced a low diving save from the keeper just after the break, in best of Al Ahli’s initial opportunities.
Esmail Al Hammadi’s close range chest and volley was also kept out at the near post before the hour, and Abdul Aziz Al Haikal struck over from a through ball into the box soon after.
Al Taawoun gave Al Ahli a scare with 18 minutes remaining when Lucian Sanmaertean hit the far post straight from an in-swinging corner.
Moosa Al Shammari then missed a sitter for the visitors before the end when he fired right at the keeper from close range.
