Jardim has already enjoyed a winning start, with Al Ain defeating Al Orouba 4-1 in their UAE Pro League 2024/25 tie on Thursday to move up to 11 points, 10 behind leaders Sharjah but with two matches in hand.

Despite languishing at the bottom of the West Zone standings with one point, last season's AFC Champions League winners are still very much in the running for a knockout stage spot as they are only two behind Al Rayyan SC and Esteghlal FC who are seventh and eighth respectively, with the top eight sides to advance to the Round of 16.

Al Ahli, however, have been firing on al cylinders on the continental stage and - together with fellow Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal - will head into the tie with a perfect record of four wins.

They warmed up for Monday's tie with a 1-0 win against Al Feiha and will face Al Ain on the back of a nine-match unbeaten run on the continental stage. They have, however, not beaten the UAE side in their last four meetings.

Venue: Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium (Al Ain)

Kick-off: Monday, 18:00 (UTC+4)