Al Ahli had been fancied to progress on home turf in the United Arab Emirates as the smaller sides bid to reach the later stages, when European giants Barcelona and South American champions Estudiantes come in.

However, the New Zealanders sprung a shock against the 'home' team today with what proved to be a comfortable victory over Mahdi Redha's team.

Redha spoke of the need to take Auckland seriously and he was proved right emphatically.

The Kiwis lost both of their games in their previous appearance at the tournament in 2006 but enjoyed better fortunes this time around.

Indeed, they started strongly today, Adam Dickinson and Lee Ki Hyung forging early opportunities.

And it was Dickinson who provided the opening goal moments before half-time to give his side a deserved lead.

Even after a chance to regroup at half-time, Al Ahli struggled to get going.

It was no surprise when Chad Coombes doubled City's lead in the 67th minute and they could even have extended the advantage before the end of the match.

Auckland will face Mexican outfit Atlante in the quarter-finals.