Rewritten Title: Persepolis Reborn: A New Chapter Under Osmar Vera with Alipour and Ornov Leading the Charge
A Resurgent Title Challenge
Persepolis, one of the primary contenders for the Iran Pro League championship, appears to have moved past a difficult period and is now experiencing a positive transformation under its new head coach, Osmar Vera. The Brazilian manager’s return to the helm has revitalized the club, rekindling significant hope among the passionate Persepolis fanbase for a swift return to the top of the league table.
A Strategic Advantage: Focused on the League
This season, Persepolis benefits from a less congested fixture list compared to its rivals, a direct consequence of its third-place finish in the previous league season and its absence from top-tier Asian competitions. This has allowed the team to channel all its energy and focus into the domestic league campaign. However, the initial phase of the season under former coach Vahid Hashemian did not yield the desired results, leading to a significant points deficit and his subsequent dismissal after eight weeks, paving the way for Vera’s return.
Vera’s appointment has coincided with a fortunate turn in scheduling. A demanding cup match against Tractor was canceled, granting Persepolis an uninterrupted training period. While their rivals are juggling domestic cup and Asian championship commitments, Persepolis enjoys a period of “absolute rest,” providing Coach Vera with a valuable opportunity to meticulously implement his tactical philosophy without distraction.
The Twin Engines of Attack: Alipour and Ornov in Peak Form
A primary reason for the renewed optimism surrounding the club is the formidable condition of its two attacking stars, Ali Alipour and Oston Ornov. Both players have hit a rich vein of form at a crucial juncture in the season.
Alipour has been Persepolis’s standout performer since the start of the season, consistently shouldering the responsibility of the team’s attack. His excellence was further demonstrated in a recent friendly match against Palayesh Naft Bandar Abbas, where he found the back of the net. Ornov, having finally shaken off persistent injury concerns, is also returning to his best. He too scored in the same friendly, signaling his return to peak physical and technical condition.
Their excellent form was also evident on the international stage. While Alipour performed his duties effectively for the Iranian national team, Ornov delivered a stunning performance against Egypt, capturing significant attention. Their explosive return and high motivation have brought a clear smile to Coach Osmar Vera’s face, as he can now rely on two fully fit and firing forwards to lead Persepolis’s charge up the league standings.