Ahal FK suffered a narrow 1-0 home defeat to Sepahan in a tightly contested AFC Champions League 2 group stage match on October 21, 2025. The result was a significant blow to Ahal's qualification hopes, with the solitary away goal proving decisive in a match of few clear chances. The key moment arrived midway through the second half when Sepahan capitalized on a defensive lapse to score what would be the match-winner. Ahal pushed for an equalizer in the closing stages but found the Iranian side's defense resolute, unable to convert their possession into a clear-cut opportunity. The defeat left Ahal with work to do in the group table, while Sepahan secured a valuable three points on the road. Post-match, the Ahal manager lamented his team's lack of cutting edge in the final third, while the Sepahan coach praised his side's disciplined defensive performance and clinical finishing.