The Uzbekistan side surprised many by reaching the semi-finals last year and are hoping for further success in this edition of the competition.

But they were made to work by a resilient Al Ettifaq and it took a brace by Anvarjon Soliev to ensure they took all three points in the Group D encounter.

“I predicted that the match would be difficult for us,” said Memet. “The Uzbekistan League has just started while it is the middle of the Saudi season and Al Ettifaq were well prepared for the match.

“But I am satisfied with result. We won a very important match and I think our fans were happy."

Memet admitted it was a late decision to start with Soliev but was pleased with the forward’s performance.

“Before the match we had a choice between the two strikers Anvarjon Soliev and Ulugbek Bakaev,” he added.

“Both were ready for the match but we chose Soliev and I’m happy that he scored twice tonight.”

Al Ettifaq had reduced the deficit in the 65th minute when Saleh Bashir stole in between two Bunyodkor defenders to head home Salah Aqqal’s inswinging cross.

They were unable to fashion an equaliser but Al Ettifaq coach Ioan Andone was pleased with his side’s performance despite the result.

“We played well against such strong opponent,” he said. “I think we created a lot of problems for one of the best Asian clubs on our ACL debut.”

The outcome of the match could have been different had Al Ettifaq had more luck in the 15th minute when Bashir’s free-kick grazed the top of the bar.

“If we had scored the goal in the first half that might have changed the course of the game,” added Andone.

“On the other hand Bunyodkor converted their chances and they won. I am satisfied with performance of my team but I’m not happy with result.

“This match is great experience for us. I think they (Bunyodkor) are favourites for this group. Not only because of score but because of their game.

“But the tournament is not finished yet and other teams will also fight for the knock-out stage spots.”