Iran's Esteghlal restore hopes after defeating Saudi's Al-Hilal 2-1

Iranian Giants Esteghlal have defeated Al-Hilal of Saudi Arabia and restoring hopes of advancing from the group stage.

Lingering at the bottom of group C, the Blues got off to a dream start against the group leaders in Doha on Monday when a corner kick was headed home by Ali Karimi from the edge of the 6-yard box. 

Pejman Montazeri then doubled the lead for Esteghlal when he headed into an empty net after 30 minutes of play.

Bafe-timbi Gomis pulled one back for Al-Hilal in the 71st minute after smashing in a loose ball in the area to set up a tense finale.

However, Esteghlal held firm to go up to 3rd in the table with 4 points, level with Al-Duhail of Qatar, who drew 2-all at home with Al-Ain of the UAE.