In a battle of AFC Champions League sides, Luiz Felipe Scolari’s men emerged triumphant, thanks to goals from Rivaldo and Stevica Ristic (Stevo).

The Brazilian ace gave his side the lead in the 18th minute and the Macedonian, who was left out in the team’s continental campaign, doubled the advantage eight minutes after the hour mark. Bojan Miladinovic reduced the deficit for Pakhtakor 10 minutes later.

Bunyodkor, who are leading ACL Group B with six points after two games, will meet Iran’s Zob Ahan on March 24 while Pakhtakor will host Iran’s Sepahan a day earlier.

In other opening round matches of the Uzbekistan League, Locomotive beat Neftchi 3-1, AFC Cup Group C leaders Nasaf were held goalless by Shurtan, Kyzylkum lost to Metallurg 1-0, Dynamo played a 1-1 draw with Khorezm, Navbahor drew 0-0 with Mashal and Andijan overcame Almalyk 3-2.