The Uzbeks’ future in the continental competition was on a knife edge going into the game and they needed all three points against the UAE side and hope that at the same time, Al Ittihad did not beat Zobahan in Esfahan to progress from Group B.

They went ahead in the 28th minute when Rivaldo headed home Server Djeparov’s cross from close range and doubled their lead three minutes later when a terrible error from keeper Mohammed Al Hosani presented Denilson with the simplest of tap-ins.

The Brazilian smashed home the third just before the hour mark before Azizbek Haydarov scored a spectacular fourth goal with a 35-yard drive that found the top corner.

Talal Abdulla converted a stoppage-time penalty for Al Wahda but Bunyodkor’s qualification was confirmed after Zobahan edged out last season’s finalists Al Ittihad 1-0.

And Scolari warned the second-round clash at Saudi giants Al Hilal, who they will face without Denilson and keeper Ignatiy Nesterov due to suspension, will prove a much sterner examination of their credentials.

“I’m happy with result but I expect tougher matches in next rounds,” said the Brazilian.

“I’m satisfied with the win but we played against a weak team.

“Everything was in our hands tonight. We will have to play against Al Hilal without Denilson and Ignatiy Nesterov, who will be suspended. But I’m not ready to talk about their replacements.”

Al Wahda had already been eliminated from the competition having won only one of their previous five matches and consequently coach Josef Hickersberger fielded a largely inexperienced side.

And the Austrian was not surprised his unfamiliar outfit were outclassed by their more illustrious opponents.

“I was disappointed with loss as we were hoping for something special,” he said.

“We have played without 10 key players and it was difficult to play with almost a reserve team.

“Anyway good luck to Bunyodkor in the future.”