Esteghlal conceded an injury time goal at the Azadi Stadium and lost two crucial points while Zob Ahan went two points clear in the Iran Professional League (IPL) table after winning 3-0 over Malavan.
“We did well against Saipa but could not take advantage of our opportunities. I feel humiliated in front of the fans who attended the match,” Ghalenoei said.
“We have not lost our hopes yet. Esteghlal is going to defeat Payam next week and we have a chance to win the IPL championship,” he added.
“I believe that Esteghlal is one of the best Iranian teams and we are behind Barcelona in term of scoring statistics,” Ghalenoei concluded.
Zob Ahan lies on top of the IPL, bagging 66 points with one week remaining while Esteghlal is in second place with 63 points.