Title: Sepahan vs. Mes Rafsanjan: A Tactical Preview of the Persian Gulf Pro League Clash
In a highly anticipated fixture of the Persian Gulf Pro League, Sepahan is set to host Mes Rafsanjan in what promises to be a compelling display of domestic football prowess. As both teams prepare for this crucial encounter, all eyes are on the strategic lineup decisions from the Sepahan camp.
A Team Forged in Adversity
Navigating a challenging phase, Sepahan enters this match with a roster significantly impacted by injuries and suspensions. Key defensive players, including Aria Shafiedoust, Mohammad Karimi, Amin Hazbavi, Mehdi Limouchi, Kaveh Rezaei, and the suspended Aria Yousefi, are confirmed absentees. This has necessitated a reshuffled defensive line, testing the squad’s depth and resilience.
Despite these challenges, the team’s midfield and attacking units are expected to maintain their stability, providing a consistent and familiar threat going forward.
Strategic Shifts and Key Players
A notable tactical change is anticipated in goal. Seyed Hossein Hosseini, having guarded the net in the team’s recent consecutive AFC Champions League and Hazfi Cup matches, is set to be the starting goalkeeper. He will be aiming to secure a clean sheet in the league, bringing his continental experience to the domestic stage.
The reconfigured defense is likely to feature Hadi Mohammadi and Mohammad Daneshgar as the central pairing. Ehsan Hajsafi is expected to operate on the left flank, with Vahdat Hanonov completing the four-man defense on the right.
In midfield and attack, Sepahan can rely on a group of players who demonstrated readiness and strong form in the previous fixture. Aref Aghaei, Ricardo Alves, and Arash Rezavand are poised to command the center of the park. The offensive trio is projected to consist of Mohammad Mehdi Lotfi, Iván Sánchez, and Enzo Croci.
While Croci seeks to rebound from a less impactful previous performance, the coaching staff’s confidence in his abilities suggests he retains a key role, with an opportunity to end his goal drought and make a decisive contribution.
The Probable Starting Eleven
The likely starting lineup for Sepahan is as follows:
Seyed Hossein Hosseini; Mohammad Daneshgar, Hadi Mohammadi, Ehsan Hajsafi, Vahdat Hanonov; Arash Rezavand, Aref Aghaei, Ricardo Alves; Mohammad Mehdi Lotfi, Iván Sánchez, Enzo Croci.
This match represents a significant test of Sepahan’s tactical adaptability and squad management as they pursue a positive result in the Persian Gulf Pro League.


