Tasnim - Tehran's popular football team, Esteghlal, got back into the title race of the Iran Professional League (IPL) following an inspiring victory over Rah Ahan on Monday.

The Blues, who lost to their arch-rival Persepolis in Tehran derby and were eliminated from Iran’s Hazfi Cup in penalty shootout by Zob Ahan in the previous eight days, defeated Rah Ahan 1-0 and moved up to the third place in the table.

Sajjad Shabazzadeh scored the only goal of the match with a header in the 62nd minute. It was Esteghlal’s first win after five weeks.

Earlier in the day, Naft defeated Persepolis 2-1 and moved to the top of the table with 30 points.

Tractor Sazi is second with 28 points and one game in hand and Esteghlal is third with 27 points.

Video of Iran Pro League week 16