Pitso Mosimane's Esteghlal have secured their place in the Hazfi Cup Round of 16 after a narrow 1-0 win against Mes Kerman at the Shahr-e Qods Stadium.
The Capital Blues had come into the match as favourites owing to their quality as opposed to their opponents. But Mes Kerman were not ready to go down without a fight, explaining the fierce exchanges in the early proceedings.
Despite the chances that were created in the first half, neither team managed to get a goal as the sides went to the break goalless.
10-man Esteghlal dig deep for a vital win
It took Mosimane's outfit four minutes, after the break, to get their goal. Jaloliddin Masharipov received a good ball from the right, and controlled it well before laying the ball to the advancing Gustavo Blanco who did well to find the back of the net from close range.
A minute later, Arash Rezavand subjected his team to a tense finale after getting himself sent off for a second bookable offense.
However, the two-time AFC Champions League champions held on to make it to the next phase of the annual competition.
Pitso is cooking!
After three back-to-back losses in all competitions – against Khyebar FC, Tractor, and Al Hilal, Esteghlal have been doing well.
They are now unbeaten in the last five matches across all tournaments; winning three and drawing two.
The positive run is welcome for the club since it will motivate the players ahead of the forthcoming outings. Esteghlal are now waiting for the Round of 16 draw to know who they will be facing next.
