Reigning champions kick of PGL 2015/16 victoriously

Persianfootball.com – ESFAHAN, Persian Gulf League champions Sepahan Esfahan began their title defense successfully, with a 1-0 win over Esteghlal Khuzestan on the opening day of the PGL 2015/16 season.

The goal of the day was scored by striking ace Mehdi Sharifi after 65 minutes, who headed in a pinpoint cross from Ehsan Hajsafi.

Also Tehran giants Esteghlal Tehran were able to collect the three points, thanks to a 2-1 away win over newly promoted Siah Jamegan. Sajjad Shahbazzadeh gave Esteghlal a 1-0 halftime lead, before Alireza Naghizadeh levelled the scoreline.

But substitute striker Behnam Barzay combined well with Shahbazzadeh, who scored his and Esteghlal’s second of the day, 12 minutes from time.

Ali Daei’s debut as Saba Qom coach ended in a goalless draw versus Esteghlal Ahvaz, whereas the match Saipa (with Javad Nekounam watching from the stands yet) against Gostaresh Foolad had to be abandoned after 86 minutes, when all floodlights went off.

Tomorrow, giants Persepolis will kick off the season versus Padideh, Foolad Khuzestan will host Rah Ahan while Malavan will entertain Zob Ahan.

Highlight of the round undoubtedly will be Tractor Sazi versus Naft Tehran, the rematch of the dramatic 3-3 draw in the final round of last season, which eventually cost both teams the league title.