The striker hit two goals for the Uzbekistan side in their 2-1 defeat of Mashal, their first victory this season in the local league after three straight defeats.

Hakimov, 22, put the visiting side ahead on 25 minutes off a penalty before doubling the score barely five minutes later. The double strike sapped the hosts’ motivation and they were left playing catch-up for the rest of the match though Zafar Kholmurodov pulled one back before the half ended.

Bahrain’s Busaiteen, Neftchi’s AFC Cup rivals on Tuesday, will be watching Hakimov’s sure touch with increasing concern. The Uzbek forward had scored the only goal of the match in Neftchi’s 1-0 win over Tilal.

Neftchi are currently 12th in the 16-team table with three points. AFC Champions League team Bunyodkor, who are also the defending champions, lead the pack with nine points from three matches.