Sherzod Hakimov scored twice to secure last week’s 2-1 win over Mash’al to hand Neftchi a first win of the new domestic season.

And the 22-year-old striker will look to again pose a threat against the Bahraini’s after also netting the only goal against Yemen’s Al Tilal.

“We want to be in the knockout stage of the AFC Cup and we will try and win every game to achieve our goal,” said Sarkisyan.

“Busaiteen currently lead the group and a victory over them is important. If we manage to convert some of the chances we regularly create we will win.”

Busaiteen coach Abdulaziz Amin is well aware a third straight win see his side put one foot in the knockout stage, but is well aware Neftchi will be determined to stake their claim for a crucial top-two finish.

“We expect a tough match when we meet Neftchi and the game is going to be very hard because Neftchi don’t want to lose any more points after losing the first game against Al Ahed," he said.

“Neftchi are looking for a victory from this game and a win would put them at the top of the group with us. If we won the game, their chances of qualifying to the next stage will be weaker.”

In the other game in the group, Al Ahed coach Fouad Saad is expecting a tricky encounter with Al Tilal despite the fact that the Yemeni side currently prop up the standings without a point from two games.

“Al Tilal are one of the best teams in Yemen and they have a big fan base,” said Saad.

“Their form this season doesn’t reflect their real abilities and we must be aware of their threat.”

But New Al Tilal coach Sami al Naash is expecting a difficult test for his players.

Al Tilal lost 3-1 in their opening game against Busaiteen before suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Neftchi.

“The game against Al Ahed will be very hard because our players are really tired,” said Al Naash.

“The task facing us in the group is very hard especially after losing the first two matches.”