It is Sepahan in Iran

Losing little time in putting behind them their AFC Champions League heartbreak, Sepahan lifted the Iran Pro League title on Sunday.

With two more rounds left in the league, a 2-2 draw with Abu Moslem in the 32nd round saw Sepahan reach 63 points, placing them six points out of second-placed Zob Ahan’s reach.

Coach Amir Ghaleenoie was ecstatic with the Esfahan-based club’s victory.

“We changed out squad 40 per cent as compared to last year but we managed to win the championship. You can see my real team next season,” said the former Team Melli tactician.

“We won this marathon of 36 weeks and this is the kind of race that is a good evaluation of the team and the coach.

“I take full responsibility for our failure in the ACL though we were a bit unlucky. When I took charge Sepahan were fourth last season and I am proud that I have led the team to the title.”

Sepahan’s triumph – the club’s second league title after 2002-03 – comes in the same week they had to endure the agony of crashing out of the AFC Champions League race for the Round of 16 after a shock 2-0 loss to UAE’s Al Ain on the last match day.

Emad Mohammed and Ehsan Hajsafi were on target for Sepahan while Mohammad Hassan Rajabzadeh and Vahid Asgari made it all square for Abu Moslem.

Zob Ahan, who will host Mes Kerman in the AFC Champions League Round of 16 clash on May 12, defeated Moghavemat 2-0, thanks to goals from Farshid Talebi and Mohammad Reza Khalatbari.

Esteghlal, who will travel to Saudi Arabia for their continental R16 clash against Al Shabab on May 11, edged past Shahin 1-0 to keep third position in the standings. Rinaldo Cruzado scored the match-winner for Esteghlal.

In other matches, Persepolis were held goalless by Steel Azin, Mes defeated Teraktor 3-2, Esteghlal Ahvaz drew 4-4 with Saipa, Saba Battery were held 1-1 by Foolad, Rah Ahan sidelined Peykan 3-0 and Pas played a 1-1 draw with Malavan.

STANDINGS: 1. Sepahan 63, 2. Zob Ahan 57, 3. Esteghlal 55, 4. Persepolis 52, 5. Steel Azin 50.