The Xavi-led reigning QSL champions are already in competition mode after their triumph over local rivals Al Duhail in the 2019 AFC Champions League Round of 16 and Sheikh Jassim Cup and looking to continue their fine start.

The 4-2 Round of 16 aggregate win over Al Duhail was followed by a 1-0 triumph in Saturday's Sheikh Jassim Cup and midfielder Ali Asad said their good early season form is a confidence booster for Al Sadd.

The Austria international signed for SIPG from Premier League side West Ham United in July and has had an immediate impact, scoring four times in six league games.

But his arrival – which saw Brazilian striker Elkeson return to Guangzhou Evergrande – has given Yu and his teammates a confidence and quality boost ahead of their AFC Champions League quarter-final meeting with the Japanese side.

Urawa, who won last season’s Japan's Emperor’s Cup to qualify for the 2019 AFC Champions League, face Vitor Pereira’s side in the first leg of their last eight clash in Shanghai on August 27 knowing the last 18 months have been a difficult period for the two-time champions.

In the season-and-a-half since Urawa captured their second AFC Champions League – which came a decade after their first – the club has experienced significant upheaval.

Midfielder Asad scored in the 13th minute to give Spain and Barcelona legend Xavi his first title as head coach.

The competition will resume in just over a week's time as the eight remaining sides continue their quests to be crowned Continental champions, but before looking ahead to the latter stages, take a look back at the-AFC.com's Week in Numbers.

Photos: Al Ittihad, Al Sadd

There was no shortage of drama in the four fixtures which saw a come-from-behind victory, some fabulous goals and domestic bragging rights earned. Here's what those involved had to say.

Photo: Al Sadd