Both Al Hilal and Bunyodkor were among the favourites to lift the 2010 trophy prior to the start of the competition but an underwhelming group campaign by the Uzbeks see them forced to travel to the King Fahd International Stadium to take on the Saudi giants.

And Scolari predicted the neutral will also be in for a treat on Wednesday when, in the Brazilian’s opinion, the two biggest sides in the AFC Champions League square off.

"The match, as I see it, is the most important match for both teams this season,” he said.

“It is also going to be the most important match in the round 16 of the competition since the two sides are two of the best teams in the tournament.

"Hilal are a big team that have achieved good results during this competition. The team also have good players.

"We fear Hilal whenever the team is at their best. I think it would be difficult for any other team to meet Hilal when the Saudis are at their best. What really worries us is that we encounter a well-prepared Hilal.”

Scolari is further hampered by the absence of striker Denilson and keeper Ignatiy Nesterov through suspension but the former Brazil, Portugal and Chelsea boss remains unfazed.

"I don’t think that the absence of the suspended Brazilian Denilson and goalkeeper will affect us,” he added.

“We are a professional team that have excellent players. The absence of a player or two doesn’t influence the team in general.”

Al Hilal coach Eric Gerets, meanwhile, underlined the return of Romanian midfielder Mirel Radoi has given his side a lift.

"I am full of pleasure for the return of the Romanian Mirel Radoi,” said Gerets.

“I believe he is one of the most important players in the team. I think we have noticed the difference in Hilal’s performance when Radoi is absent compared to the team’s work when he is involved.

"We will enter the match strongly and I am quite sure that if we are on our game, no other Asian team can stop us."

Gerets also echoed Scolari’s assessment of the magnitude of the encounter.

"The game against Bunyodkor is our most important match and we will do our best since this continental championship is the priority on the agenda of Hilal," added the Belgian.

"I understand that the match is at the end of the season and I know that our players are exhausted, but I am sure they will do their best in this match to please their fans before the summer holiday."