Rewritten Title: Cup’s Final 15 Confirmed as Key Derby Clash is Postponed
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Round of 16 Picture Becomes Clearer
The knockout stage of Iran’s Hazfi Cup intensified over the weekend, with the matches for the Round of 16 being largely decided. The fixtures, held on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, determined 15 of the 16 teams that will advance to the next stage of the country’s premier football cup competition.
Southern Derby Decides Final Spot
The final qualifying match took place on Saturday between Foolad and Esteghlal Khuzestan. In a commanding performance, Foolad, under the management of Golmohammadi, secured a decisive 3-0 victory, winning the southern derby and claiming their place in the next round.
A Diverse Field of Qualifiers
The 15 confirmed teams represent a broad cross-section of Iranian football. The group is composed of 11 clubs from the top-tier Persian Gulf Pro League, 5 teams from League 1, and one club, Foolad Hormozgan, from League 2. This mix ensures a compelling blend of established top-flight teams and ambitious challengers from the lower divisions in the upcoming stage.
Awaited Clash Between Giants
The most anticipated match of the previous round, the fixture between Tractor and Persepolis, was postponed. This high-stakes encounter between two of the nation’s football giants is now expected to be rescheduled for late Azar (the third month of the Iranian calendar, falling in November/December). The winner of this single postponed match will complete the 16-team lineup for the Round of 16, setting the stage for the next phase of this prestigious tournament.