It’s been a dismal continental campaign for the Pride of Abu Dhabi, whose record of one point from a draw and four defeats is the second worst of the 32 teams.

Only Buriram United of Thailand have been more woeful, but Dutchman Ten Cate insists his men can bow out on a high by avenging a 3-1 defeat to Nu’mon Hasanov’s side in Abu Dhabi two weeks ago, although they will have to do it without the suspended Ali Mabkhout.

“My team is always looking for a win and the players are highly motivated to fight in this game,” said Ten Cate, who believes Jazira can take advantage of the fact the hosts still have it all to do to qualify for the knockout stages.

“The identity of the second finalist for this group has not yet been determined so the pressure will be on Pakhtakor because their only option is to take three points.” Al Hilal meat Tractor Sazi in Muscat in Group C’s other game and Hilal coach Georgios Donis is hoping his side can bounce back from losing in the semi-finals of Saudi Arabia’s King’s Cup to qualify for the knockout phase.

“It’s very important for us to get the three points if we want to qualify,” said the former Greece international, whose side are a point above Pakhtakor.

“We are going through a difficult period as our performances in recent matches have not been good.”

Elsewhere, in Group G, either South Korea’s Suwon Bluewings or Australia’s Melbourne Victory will join leaders and already qualified Shanghai SIPG in the last 16. Melbourne will be favourites as they host bottom of the table Gamba Osaka, while Suwon welcome Sven-Goran Eriksson’s big-spending outfit.

2007 champions Urawa Reds, meanwhile, can win Group H if they beat Pohang Steelers coupled with a win In Guangzhou for deposed champions Evergrande against Graham Arnold’s Sydney FC.