Tehran Times - Persepolis football team went top of the Iran Professional League (IPL) table after defeating Padideh 2-0 in Tehran’s Azadi Stadium on Wednesday.
The Iranian giants moved two points clear of Sepahan at the top and Padideh sit third.
Ali Alipour gave the lead the hosts in the 24th minute from the penalty spot.
Eight minutes later, Siamak Nemati found the back of the net with a long-range shot.
“We expected a very tough game because Padideh are one of the best teams. I am happy with this win and I think we deserved to win,” Persepolis coach Branko Ivankovic said in the post-match news conference.
“We want to make our fans happy, that’s why we are here. I say once again, I am satisfied with my team’s performance because Padideh are a modern team and frankly they are favorites to win the title,” the Croat added.
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Earlier on the day, Tractor Sazi defeated Naft Masjed Soleyman 3-0 in Tabriz thanks to second half goals from Ashkan Dejagah, Yukiya Sugita and Mohammad Hosseini who scored an own goal.
Esteghlal will play Paykan on Thursday in Shahr-e Qods Stadium.
