Samereh seeks Champions League boost

AFC - Esteghlal striker Ali Samereh, who scored the first goal of Group C in the AFC Champions League with a stunning 25-yard effort against Al Sadd, is convinced that success in the US$3million competition will help them put an end to their inconsistent domestic form.

"It's true that because we have been struggling in the league there is a lot of pressure on all of us but we are trying hard," he said.

"I strongly believe if we can be successful in this stage of the Champions League and advance to the next one it will boost our confidence in such a way that we might even be able to take the championship in the Iran Pro League."

The 25-year-old, who spent a season in Italy with Perugia, added:

"Each team will have its ups and downs and unfortunately we have not been very stable this season but with God's will and more teamwork we will have better results in the upcoming matches."