Sapinto’s Strategy Delivers: Esteghlal Secures Hard-Fought Asian Victory Over Al-Wahdat
In a crucial AFC Champions League 2 group stage encounter, Esteghlal of Tehran clinched a valuable victory against Jordan’s Al-Wahdat. The match, held at the Shahid-e Qods City Stadium, showcased a team revitalized under the guidance of its Portuguese head coach.
A Coach’s Calculated Moves
Ricardo Sá Pinto, having recently celebrated his second domestic league win with Esteghlal against Mes Rafsanjan, entered this Asian fixture with clear intent. His objective was twofold: to keep Esteghlal’s hopes alive for advancing to the knockout stages and to secure a second consecutive win, building positive momentum for the club. The tactical lineup he fielded was a testament to a focused strategy aimed at securing this important result.
A Settled and Confident Lineup
The team sheet revealed a side growing in cohesion. In goal, Habib Farabbasi retained his position, fresh from a clean sheet in the previous match, providing a stable last line of defense.
The defensive core saw the likely partnership of Rustam Ashurmatov and Aref Aghasi, a duo tasked with neutralizing the opposition’s attack. While the potential inclusion of Saman Fallah was noted, his recovery from a minor injury made his start uncertain. On the flanks, Saleh Hardani, stepping in as team captain, fortified the right side, while Hossein Goudarzi was entrusted with containing threats on the left.
The Engine Room and Attacking Thrust
The midfield dynamism was supplied by the young and energetic pair of Amirmohammad Rezazadeh and Mehran Ahmadi, pivotal in both creating opportunities and disrupting the opponent’s rhythm. On the wings, the in-form Albanian winger Yaser Asani, who has been a standout performer, started on the right, with Alireza Koushki operating on the left.
Leading the line, the offensive duties fell to the striking partnership of Mounir El-Haddadi and Saeed Saharkhizan, whose coordination was key to breaking down Al-Wahdat’s defense and securing the winning goals.
This well-executed game plan and disciplined performance allowed Esteghlal to secure a significant three points, strengthening their position in the continental competition.