Perspolis and Esteghlal played to a 1-1 tie

PLDC - Despite Perspolis's dominance for most of the game, the Red and the Blue giants shared the points in their 23rd week IPL match.

Esteghlal needed all 3 points to go to the top of the league as Perspolis playing for pride and a top table finish. It was Perspolis that started brighter as Hussein Kaabi, Perspolis's new signing was taken down by Esteghlal defender Sadeghi in the box and the German referee pointed to the spot, however, Mehrzad Madanchi's kick was saved by Esteghlal's keeper, Vahid Talebloo.

Perspolis fans however had to only wait three minutes to see their team score as Nikbakht-Vahedi scored a header in minute 13. It was Perpolis creating more chances for the rest of the half while Esteghlal relied on Alizadeh's throw-ins and came close twice using the same tactic. Kaabi also came close to score for Perspolis mid-through the half but Vahid Talebloo was there to stop his weak shot. Talebloo also had to get involved in two other occasions to save long rang shots.

As it was Perspolis that looked more likely to score, the Blues took full advantage of a free kick right out side of the box as Siyavash Akbarpour's low shot was converted by Alizadeh from close range to tie the game.

The second half started more balanced but the Reds looked more dangerous as the game went on. Asghar Talebnasab however could have put Esteghlal ahead, only for his last touches to let him down twice.

The last 15 minutes of the game belonged all to the Reds as a few great chances were missed one after another and Vahid Talebloo proved his ability as a good goal keeper on more than one occasion. Perspolis not being able to convert meant that the teams shared the points after 90 plus minute of football.

Esteghlal will travel to Mashhad next week to face Abomuslem, as Perspolis will host Mes Kerman in Azadi for week 24 matches.

Posted By: Armin A.