Iran's Sepahan has defeated United Arab Emirate's Al Wahda in the first leg of the AFC Champions League semifianls at Foulad Shahr Stadium.

Mahmoud Karimi scores two goals for Sepahan

The Iranian club has moved a step closer to the Champions League final after a 3-1 victory over Al Wahda.

Mahmoud Karimi's 11th minute strike gave Sepahan the lead in front of some 30,000 Yellow fans.

Al Wahda was reduced to 10 men, when the Singaporean referee did not think twice on reaching for his pocket, and showing a straight red card to Yasser Abdullah. However, Mohamed Al Shehi scored the equalizer in the 48th minute.

In the 56th minute, Karimi stroke again to give Sepahan back the lead. And in the 83rd minute Moharram Navidkia scored from the spot to ensure a sweet victory for the home team.

Sepahan will take on Al Wahda in the second leg in Abu Dhabi on October 24.

... Payvand News - 10/5/07 ... --