In a rematch of the last year final which ended in favour of the Iranian champions 1-0, Sanaye’s Mahdi Javid scored a late winner one minute from time to break the hearts of Ardus who are eliminated from the competition.

Earlier, Mohammed Taheri opened Sanaye’s lead as early as in the second minute of the match but Dilshod Rakhmatov brought the match at level terms 37th minute.

Two minutes later, Javid struck the killer blow to walk away with all three points. Sanaye finished second in Group B behind Chonburi Bluewave who edged Qatar Champions Al Sadd 3-2 elsewhere at Park Arena Komaki in a simultaneous kickoff. Sanaye coach Reza Aliabady admitted of the pressure the team had to book a berth in the semi-final.

“The whole of Iran expected a lot from us as defending champions so we were under pressure to deliver,” he said. “It was a difficult match and both the sides had pressure to win to progress. We were short of some important players who did not make it in Nagoya but it did not matter as the young players understood the situation and really showed the teamwork that is needed in this level.

“We are yet to find our actual rhythm but I hope we get it in the semi-final. No matter which team we play in the semi-final, we will play to win and defend our title,” he added. Ardus coach Buhodir Ahmedov admitted that his side were unlucky and at least deserved a point from the tie.

“I think Sanaye had the luck this time,” he said.

“I have no complains over my players, they were magnificent today and I would like to thank them for their performance today.

“It was a privilege to play in this wonderful stadium, we enjoyed our time here in Japan,” he said.