Iran Professional League: Esteghlal Loses, Persepolis Wins
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Esteghlal football team suffered a home defeat while its arch rival Persepolis earned a valuable away victory in Iran Professional League (IPL).
On Thursday, Esteghlal lost to Naft in Tehran’s Azadi Stadium.
Reza Norouzi scored the only goal of the match in stoppage time.
Elsewhere, Persepolis defeated struggling Damash in Rasht thanks to Mohammad Abbaszadeh’s goal in the 31st minute.
The IPL leader, Foolad, beat Tractor Sazi 2-1 in Ahvaz.
Karim Ansarifard gave the visiting team a lead after nine minutes but Mehdi Badrloo scored twice from the penalty spot in the 33rd and 73rd minutes.
Sepahan was held to a 2-2 draw in Isfahan, Rah Ahan edged Esteghlal Sanati 1-0, Saba defeated relegation-threatened Zob Ahan 2-1, Fajr Sepasi drew 1-1 with rock-bottom Mes and Gostaresh Foolad lost to Malavan 2-1.
With two weeks remaining, Foolad remains at top of the table with 54 points, followed by Persepolis (51), Naft (51) and Esteghlal (50).