Bunyodkor, the defending champions, were reduced to 10 men in the 27th minute when Hamza Karimov was sent off. But they already had a 1-0 lead, thanks to an own goal by Pakhtakor’s Asror Aliqulov in the 21st minute.

Jasur Hasanov consolidated Bunyodkor’s lead in the 58th minute.

Uzbekistan international Alexander Geynrikh raised hopes of a fightback when he pulled one back for the ACL ever-presents in the 71st minute but Bunyodkor’s well-organised defence ensured full points for their side.

Bunyodkor, who will host Korea Republic’s Pohang Steelers in the first leg of their ACL quarter-final on September 23, are now on 45 points after 15 rounds while Pakhtakor are nine points adrift of the leaders.

Pakhtakor will face Saudi Arabia’s two-time champions Al Ittihad in their two-legged ACL quarter-final on September 24 (home) and 30.

STANDINGS: 1. Bunyodkor 45, 2. Pakhtakor 36, 3. Nasaf 27, 4. Neftchi 26, 5. Almalik 26.