In the match held at the Azadi Stadium, Esteghlal battled back from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Saipa. The Blues had lost to their arch-rival Persepolis 3-2 last week.
Amin Manouchehri found the back of the Esteghlal net in the 34th minute and scored again in the 54th minute.
Esteghlal reduced the deficit four minutes later when Zandi struck a powerful free-kick from about 20 meters.
With one minute remaining, Zandi got his brace from a free-kick again.
Esteghlal moved a point clear of the top of the Iran Professional League standings table; Sepahan remains second with one game in hand.
Elsewhere, Zob Ahan was held to a goalless draw by rock-bottom Mes of Sarcheshmeh.