Abu Dhabi: Al Ain settled for a goalless draw against Sepahan of Tehran on Wednesday as they earned their first point in this year's AFC Champions League.
However, the result was further evidence of the indifferent form of UAE clubs in the football championship, despite having four representatives in the competition.
Al Ain and Al Jazira each have a single point from two goalless ties, both in Iran, against Esteghlal and Sepahan respectively. They lost at home to Al Garafa from Qatar and Pakhtakor from Uzbekistan in their first games.
Al Wahda and Al Ahli failed to collect a single point after losing their matches.
The results mean UAE clubs have collected just two points from a possible 24 over eight matches.
Al Jazira are placed third in Group A while the other three are at the bottom of their respective groups.
One of the biggest problems for the UAE clubs is the fact that they are deeply absorbed in domestic competitions and are failing to seize the opportunities beyond their borders.
Physical strength
Al Ain, who were the champions of the first AFC Champions League in 2003 and runners-up in 2005, are still waiting to score their first goal in this year's competition despite controlling the match against Sepahan.
UAE players have always suffered against teams of superior physical strength and speed of thought.
Brazilian Rivaldo, the captain of Bunyodkor of Uzbekistan, is proof that the first yard is always in the head.
The 37-year-old midfielder used his vast experience to produce a masterful display of one-touch football against Al Whada and was key to his team's 2-1 win.
Al Ain and Al Jazira still have a slight chance to make the second round but they have to start winning matches.
The third match day will take place on March 23 and 24.
