AFC Champions League Elite: Garrido hails Persepolis’ indomitable spirit

Doha: Juan Carlos Garrido was extremely proud after Persepolis FC revived their AFC Champions League Elite™ 2024/25 knockout stage hopes with a 2-1 win against Iraq’s Al Shorta on Monday.

The Islamic Republic of Iran side showed grit and determination to defeat Al Shorta, drawing level in the 89th minute and then proceeding to score the winner through Giorgi Gvelesiani deep in stoppage time to move up to six points with two matches remaining.

#ACLElite | Persepolis FC (IRN) 2 - 1 Al Shorta (IRQ)

“This victory was the result of the efforts of the players and our analysis of the opponents and until the last moment, we fought to win,” said Garrido.

“This game was full of events, but we tried until the last minute. We knew that this game was important and when a penalty was awarded to Al Shorta, the goalkeeper and players believed they would not score.

“We had opportunities during the game, but we had to work until the last moment to win and we reached our goal.”

Mohanad Ali gave Al Shorta a 19th minute lead and they looked good value to defend it until Uzbekistan international Oston Urunov struck the equaliser with a minute left of regulation time.

More drama was to follow with Al Shorta awarded a penalty in the ninth minute of stoppage time but Mahmoud Al Mawas hammered his effort against the post with Persepolis then earning a spot-kick of their own which was put away by Gvelesiani.

Garrido praised Uronov’s contribution, with the 23-year-old forward having just returned from a groin injury.

“Uronov showed today that he is working hard for the success of the team and scored a goal at a very important moment for Persepolis.

“It was very difficult to make a comeback and get back into the game and I congratulate the team and the players for their fighting spirit.”

While Persepolis revived their hopes, Al Shorta - on two points - only have a mathematical chance of advancing.

Garrido hails Persepolis’ indomitable spirit

MD6: Persepolis FC (IRN) 2-1 Al Shorta (IRQ)

MD6: Al Wasl FC (UAE) 1-1 Al Rayyan SC (QAT)

MD6: Al Ahli Saudi FC (KSA) 2-2 Esteghlal FC (IRN)

MD6: Al Nassr Club (KSA) 1-2 Al Sadd SC (QAT)

Preview - MD6: Shanghai Shenhua FC (CHN) v Ulsan HD FC (KOR)