Al Gharafa made a winning start to the 2010 Asian Champions League after the Qatar side won 2-1 at Al Jazira in their Group A opener.

Goals from Moroccan Othman Al Assas and Iraq international Younis Mahmoud secured the win for the visitors at Mohammad Bin Zayed Stadium with Rafael Sobis scoring a consolation for Al Jazira.

Al Jazira coach Abel Braga was disappointed at how easily the UAE side succumbed to defeat.

“When we managed to score our first goal I thought we would come back with more goals, but our play was disappointing,” he said.

“We have been defeated before but not in this manner.

“It is only the first game and we still have our chance.”

Iranians Esteghal also made a winning start in the group following a 2-1 win at Saudis Al Ahli at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium.

Farhad Majidi scored in either half to wrap up the three points before substitute Hassan Al Raheb grabbed a late consolation for the home side.

The result means Sergio Farias, who led South Korean’s Pohang Steelers to the Asian title last year, suffered a continental debut defeat in charge of Al Ahli.