Title: Esteghlal’s Key Players Return to Bolster Squad for Crucial Asian Contest
A Resurgent Blue Wave
After a string of disappointing results, Tehran’s Esteghlal football club has regained its footing with a vital victory in the Persian Gulf Pro League. The team, under the guidance of head coach Ricardo Sá Pinto, secured a decisive win against Mes Rafsanjan, breaking a seven-match winless streak across all competitions. This crucial result has propelled Esteghlal back into the league’s top three, dramatically improving their standing and morale as they navigate the domestic season.
Asian Campaign at a Crossroads
Despite the domestic resurgence, Esteghlal’s journey in the AFC Champions League has been challenging. Placed in what was initially considered a manageable group, the team suffered a heavy defeat in their opening match against Al Wasl. A subsequent loss to Bahrain’s Al-Muharraq has left the club in a precarious position, facing the threat of an early exit from the tournament. The upcoming home match against Jordan’s Al-Wehdat is now a must-win encounter for the Blues, a pivotal moment to salvage their Asian campaign and keep their hopes of progression alive.
Injury Crisis Subsides
The victory against Mes Rafsanjan was achieved despite the absence of several key figures. Coach Sá Pinto was serving a suspension, while defensive stalwarts Roozbeh Cheshmi and Abolfazl Jalali were unavailable due to injury and illness, respectively. However, the squad’s outlook has brightened significantly ahead of the high-stakes Al-Wehdat clash.
Full Squad Strength Returns
In a major boost for the team, the injury crisis has effectively ended. Both Roozbeh Cheshmi, who was also dealing with a personal loss, and Abolfazl Jalali have returned to full team training and are available for selection. Additionally, despite a minor knock, Mousa Gnenepo is also expected to be fit for the match. For the first time in this Asian campaign, Coach Sá Pinto will have a full roster at his disposal, presenting him with a wealth of options as he finalizes his starting lineup for this critical encounter.