• “Al-Malaki” on a Historic Mission

Jordanian football fans are turning their eyes to Amman International Stadium on Tuesday evening, as Al-Hussein Club faces Iran’s Esteghlal in the second leg of the AFC Champions League 2 Round of 16.

A Crossroads for Jordanian Football

This encounter represents a pivotal moment for Jordan’s representative, aiming to make a historic mark on the continental stage.

Home Advantage and the Dream of Qualification

Al-Hussein enters the match buoyed by a crucial 1-0 win in last week’s first leg in Dubai. This gives the Jordanian side multiple paths to advance, needing only a draw to secure a quarterfinal spot, while the experienced Iranian squad looks to overturn the deficit from the opening whistle.

Final Preparations

Both teams completed their final on-field preparations on Monday at Amman International Stadium. Al-Hussein’s coaching staff is focusing on tactical discipline to block key Iranian players, while planning quick offensive transitions to exploit expected gaps.

Technical Readiness and Fan Support

The club relies on a core of international and professional stars having an exceptional season domestically and in Asia. A large turnout of supporters is expected, with Jordanian fans uniting behind the “Invaders” to back their team in this national mission.

Stability at the Club

The club enjoys administrative and technical stability, raising expectations that Al-Hussein can go deep into the tournament and challenge for the continental title, cementing its name in Asian football history.

Press Conference

Brazilian coach Franco confirmed the squad’s readiness for the Tehran-based club, emphasizing confidence in achieving a positive result to reach the quarterfinals despite the strong opposition.

A Different Plan in Amman

Franco noted that a balanced defensive strategy secured last week’s 1-0 win in Dubai. The second-leg approach will be tactically adapted to the match conditions, with all scenarios considered, including extra time and penalty shootouts, for which the players have trained.

One Possible Absence

All players are fully fit except striker Rizq Bani Hani, who has recently returned to training but still experiences some pain, leaving his participation uncertain.

Ambitions Beyond Qualification

Player Rajai Ayed stressed the team’s mindset is victory-focused, aiming not just to progress but to compete for the championship, confident in the squad’s abilities.

Organizational and Security Briefing

A pre-match coordination meeting addressed logistical, security, and media matters. Al-Hussein will wear yellow and black, while Esteghlal will appear in blue.