The Finnish coach has picked 16 players from Hong Kong Premier League title chasing duo Eastern and Kitchee as the territory looks to make an impact in Group C against Bahrain, Iraq, Islamic Republic of Iran and Cambodia.

Hojaahmet Arazov’s side went ahead through an early own goal from Dordoi’s Alexander Mischenko, before the points were made safe by captain Elman Tagayev 12 minutes from time.

Ahal’s tally of six points means they now cannot be overhauled by either Dordoi or Tajikistan’s FC Ravshan, who will complete the Group E schedule with a dead rubber on Thursday.

Having put four past Kyrgyz Republic side FC Alay in their opening match, the 2011 winners romped to a three-goal lead by half-time and went on to protect their advantage, securing a second consecutive win.

With the result, Nasaf move to the top of Group F with six points to their name. They will need to avoid defeat against Altyn Asyr on the final matchday to secure passage to the Zonal finals.

Having started their campaign with a 2-2 draw against Tajikistan’s FC Khujand, Altyn Asyr wasted no time at Central Republican Stadium, taking the game to their opponents straight from kick-off and they were instantly rewarded with goals.

Things are not so close in Australia, however, as Melbourne City remain nine points clear of their nearest challenger despite a draw with Wellington Phoenix bringing an end to their four-game winning run.

Elsewhere, football returned to Cambodia for the first time in more than a month, so join the-AFC.com as we review the best of the action from around Southeast Asia.

As well as a full set of domestic match fixtures from China PR and Korea Republic's top flights, there were also some big results in Hong Kong, so join the-AFC.com as we review the action from across East Asia.

Federico Cartabia, meanwhile, scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner as Shabab Al Ahli edged Al Nasr 2-1 to win the UAE President's Cup on Sunday.

In Saudi Arabia, Al Hilal widened their lead at the top of the standings to four points despite being held by Al Batin. Join the-AFC.com as we review the latest round of domestic action in West Asia.