Title: A Fortress Rebuilt: Esteghlal’s Defensive Resurgence After 60-Day Wait
Tehran – In a significant tactical achievement, Esteghlal Tehran has re-established its defensive solidity, securing a clean sheet for the first time in over two months with a 1-0 victory over Mes Rafsanjan in the Iran Persian Gulf Pro League.
A Long-Awaited Clean Sheet
The “Blue” squad’s victory was anchored by an impenetrable defense, a sight their fans had not witnessed since the opening week of the current season on August 19. Between that initial match and the recent fixture, Esteghlal had conceded goals in seven consecutive official matches—five in the domestic league and two in the secondary stage of the AFC Champions League. The team’s return to a shutout performance ends a 630-minute streak without one.
Foundations of the Defensive Turnaround
Football analysts and club specialists point to several key factors behind this defensive resurgence. The return of defender Rustam Ashurmatov to the starting lineup and the solidified role of Habib Far Abbasi are widely credited. Furthermore, the team has reportedly achieved a better physical conditioning level and a higher degree of coordination and understanding among the defensive unit, creating a more organized and resilient backline.
Opponent’s Offensive Struggles
The context of the match also played a role. Mes Rafsanjan entered the encounter with a struggling attack, having scored only four goals in their six previous league matches. Their inability to find the net against Esteghlal further extended this underwhelming record to just four goals in seven games.
This defensive milestone marks a potential turning point for Esteghlal as they aim to build consistency and mount a serious challenge on both domestic and continental fronts.