Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Tehran: Defending champions Esteghlal moved to the top of the early standings in the Persian Gulf Cup on Saturday with a 1-0 win over Saba Qom at the Azadi Stadium.
Amir Ghalenoei’s side moved into pole position – albeit temporarily – ahead of Foolad on goal difference and two points clear of Sepahan and Persepolis, who play on Sunday.
Mohammad Ghazi Najafabadi scored the only goal of the game for the AFC Champions League quarterfinalists in the 32nd minute as the Tehran-based club continued to build-up for their meeting with Thailand’s Buriram United.
The Iranians host the first leg of the quarterfinal on August 21 with the return in Thailand on September 18.