First-half goals from Brazilian striker Anderson and compatriot Jean Carlos along with Mousa Hatab’s effort 10 minutes after the break at Sharjah Stadium were enough to settle the West Asian play-off game in the hosts’ favour.

“Dempo were an organised side and they played well,” said the Portuguese boss.

“But we managed to win because of the performance we produced and we controlled the game, although we made some mistakes.

“I’m satisfied with the performance of the players, mainly the young players who produced a good display after doing well in training prior to the game.”

Oliveira will now turn his attention to their Group B campaign and is confident Sharjah will have all the necessary tools at their disposal to challenge for a place in the knockout stages.

“We won the game now and we are ready to meet our next opponents in the group stage of the AFC Champions League,” he added.

“We will meet Iran’s Pirouz, Al Shabab of Saudi Arabia and Qatar champions Al Gharafa and I know all these teams well. I know a lot of information because I’ve worked before in the region.”

Dempo coach Armando Colaco, meanwhile, was satisfied with the account his side gave of themselves and underlined the Indians had drawn useful lessons despite the defeat.

“I’m happy with my boys, they produced a good performance that showed our capabilities,” he said Colaco.

“We have gained good experience because Sharjah are a good side. Football in UAE is much better than Indian football.

“However, our football has improved. Our national team won the AFC Challenge Cup and we have several international players.”

Colaco also lamented the fact attacking spearhead Ranty Martins was not fully fit.

“Before the game we had a problem in attack as our Nigerian striker Ranty Martins was injured and we had to play him,” he added.

“He played while injured and it affected our chances.

“Now we will turn our attention to the local league and I hope that we can do well in our next matches.”