Esteqlal moves to third place in the Iranian Premier League after Saturday's 2-0 victory against Steel Azin at Tehran's Azadi Stadium.

The Blues took the lead when striker Seyed Mehdi Seyed Salehi broke the deadlock after 72 minutes in the evening match.

Esteqlal defender Pejman Montazeri doubled the advantage four minutes later, allowing the visitors to earn the game's three points for positioning in the Iranian Premier League.

“It was a tough game, but I'm delighted we defeated them,” said Esteqlal manager Samad Marfavi.

Steel Azin coach Hamid Estili, however, said the Blues did their best whenever an opportunity came up.

“Esteqlal players took the best advantage of their chances against us,” Estili said.

“They changed their tactics in the second half and finally won the game,” he added.

Sepahan, coached by Amir Qalenoi, leads the IPL table on 48 points, followed by Zob Ahan with 45. Esteqlal sits third on 37 points, while its arch-rival, Persepolis, places fourth on goal difference.


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