Tehran derby: Esteghlal beat Persepolis to advance to Hazfi Cup semifinals

Esteghlal of Tehran have advanced to the semifinals of Iran’s knockout competition known as Hazfi Cup after defeating cross-town arch-rivals Persepolis in penalty shootouts following an insipid goalless draw at the end of extra time.

According to Press TV, the first half at Tehran's Azadi Stadium was a particularly cagey affair with neither team creating any clear-cut opportunities. There was marginal improvement after the break, with a couple of half-chances fashioned at either end. However, the deadlock remained intact.

In extra-time, both teams went close but not close enough for shootouts to decide the winner. Finally, in the decisive spot kicks, the Reds’ Eesa Al-e-Kasir skied his attempt to give Mehid Ghaedi the chance to win it for Esteghlal. However, he squandered the opportunity and gave Persepolis a lifeline. But Mehid Abadi also saw his effort saved as the Tehran Blues conquered the 93th Tehran derby and booked a spot in the semifinals.

ME