TEHRANTIMES - Persepolis earned a 1-0 hard-fought victory against Damash on Friday ahead of next week derby against arch-rival Esteghlal.

In the match held in Tehran’s Azadi Stadium, Persepolis striker Gholamreza Rezaei was brought down in penalty area by Damash keeper Milad Farahani and Hossein Mahini converted the penalty in the 40th minute.

“It was a difficult match but I am happy because we earned an important victory ahead of derby,” Persepolis coach Yahya Golmohammadi said during the post-match news conference.

Asked if Ali Karimi and Mehdi Mahdavikia will be fit for the derby, he said, “They will likely play against Esteghlal but we have to wait two more days to know if they could play or not.”

Elsewhere, Traktorsazi edged Sanat Naft in an away game and moved up to the first place on goal difference, Paykan lost 3-1 to Naft, visiting Sepahan crushed Saipa, Sepasi was held to a 1-1 draw by Saba and struggling Zob Ahan beat relegation-threatened Gahar 1-0.  

Malavan will host Esteghlal and Mes face Foolad on Saturday.

Video of Iran Pro League week 22