TEHRANTIMES - Esteghlal football team defeated Saipa on Monday in Iran Professional League (IPL) thanks to a goal from Farzad Hatami.

In the 54th minute, substitute Ali Hamoudi sent the ball into the penalty area, where unmarked Farzad Hatami headed the ball into the goal.

Saipa dominated the majority of the second-half but Esteghlal keeper Mehdi Rahmati made some good saves.

“I am happy since we won the match but I am not satisfied with my strikers. They squandered their chances. We will represent Iran in the AFC Champions League and must take advantage of our opportunities,” Esteghlal coach Amir Ghalenoei said in the post-match news conference.

Elsewhere, Damash lost to Aluminum 2-1 in its home game, Naft and Mes played out a goalless draw and Traktorsazi defeated Paykan 1-0 in Tabriz.

Esteghlal moved four points clear at the top of the IPL, followed by Foolad and Traktorsazi with 33 and 32 points respectively.

Video of Iran Pro League week 19