The 26-year-old fired in a superb low strike from 30 yards to clinch a 1-0 first round victory for the side representing host nation United Arab Emirates.

His effort after 37 minutes was the first Al-Jazira had registered on target and it proved pivotal at the Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain.

The tournament features the six continental club champions as well as the host nation berth which Al-Jazira, who are based in Abu Dhabi, were awarded after winning the UAE Pro League in 2016-2017.

New Zealand side Auckland were making a record ninth appearance in the competition but were made to regret a Callum McCourt miss from 12 yards before Romarinho struck.

Auckland, who surprisingly finished third in 2014, were also the better side after the break but they could find no way through.

It means Al-Jazira will move on to face Asian champions Urawa Red Diamonds in the quarter finals.

They will play the Japanese side at the Zayed Sports City Stadium in Abu Dhabi on December 9.

The second quarter final will be between African champions Wydad Casablanca of Morocco and North American champions Pachuca of Mexico.

This game will be on the same day at the same venue.

Spanish giants Real Madrid, and Brazil's South American champions Gremio, will enter the tournament in the semi-finals.