The Brazilian was sent off in the home defeat to Zob Ahan last time out, with the 1-0 loss leaving the Uzbek side’s chances of progressing from Group B in the balance.

Bunyodkor trail the table-topping Iranians by four points and are one behind Wednesday’s opponents, meaning only victory in Jeddah will leave their fate in their own hands.

And they will have to do it without playmaker Rivaldo who, along with Anvar Gafurov, is suspended.

Scolari, though, is confident he has enough strength in depth to cover the former World Player of the Year’s absence.

"It’s true that Rivaldo is an important player for the team. He did not deserve the red card he received against Zob Ahan of Iran,” he said.

“However, we have alternatives for him and the other suspended players."

Bunyodkor opened their campaign with a comfortable 3-0 win over last season’s finalists at JAR Stadium in Tashkent, serving early notice they would be among the teams ultimately vying for Asia’s top club accolade.

However, the picture has drastically changed for both teams in the interim period with Al Ittihad now proving a much tougher prospect following an upturn in form.

Scolari, though, is confident his side can complete a double over the two-time ACL champions.

"Although I respect Ittihad as a strong team, my team came to repeat the win again over the Tigers on their ground," he added.

“But a loss would weaken my team’s chances to qualifying to the next stage.”

Al Ittihad coach Enzo Trossero also predicted a hard-fought contest between two sides desperate to reach the last 16.

"The match will tough for both teams, but we will work hard to make it ours this time," the Argentine said.

“Bunyodkor are a good team that I respect. You will see my side’s game plan on the field.”

Al Ittihad defender Mishal Al Saeed added they were determined to stamp their authority on proceedings early on.

"We know that Bunyodkor are a strong team but we will take the advantage of the weather and we will make our move in the first-half of the match," he said.